Hamas Reasserts Control in Gaza Amid Ceasefire
In the wake of a recent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, the latter has begun to tighten its control over Gaza, according to multiple sources. This comes amid ongoing discussions about potential demilitarization and the future of the region under the proposed U.S. 'Board of Peace' plan. However, questions of justice and accountability remain, as the ceasefire has not halted the suffering of the Palestinian population.
The Ceasefire and its Aftermath
The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas was initiated last month following years of conflict and bloodshed, with the most recent surge of violence beginning around October 2023. Despite the truce, accusations of collective punishment by Israel and a lack of justice for Palestinians persist. As Ruth James of the Middle East Eye underscores, The ceasefire in Gaza has not stopped Israel’s collective punishment of the territory's population.
Following the ceasefire, Hamas has swiftly reasserted its control over Gaza. The Times of Israel reports that the group has reinstated fees on imported goods and raised taxes, a move some analysts interpret as a sign of the group's refusal to cede power.
Challenges and Achievements Amid the Conflict
Despite the ongoing conflict and hardship, there have been glimmers of resilience and achievement. As reported by Al-Quds News, around 30,000 students in Gaza, born in 2007, sat for the secondary education certificate exams, known as Tawjihi. These exams were conducted entirely online due to severe infrastructure challenges after the destruction of 27 schools and the killing of more than 16,000 students and 750 teachers.
U.S. Involvement and the 'Board of Peace' Proposal
Meanwhile, the U.S. is pressing for its own resolution on the Gaza situation. The proposed 'Board of Peace' plan, presented by the Trump administration, has been criticized for functioning as a political cover for Israel's ongoing military campaign, according to Tehran Times. The U.S. warns of a 'real human cost' if the UN Security Council does not back its Gaza resolution, as reported by The Times of Israel.
The Future of Gaza
While the ceasefire has brought temporary relief from the intense bombings, it has not stopped the suffering of the Palestinian population, with families still feeling vulnerable and deliberately deprived. As Hamas continues to solidify its control, questions of justice, accountability, and the future of the region remain unanswered.
Despite the ongoing negotiations and international proposals, the people of Gaza continue to navigate through the grim reality of their daily lives, with the hopes of a brighter, more peaceful future. As the situation continues to evolve, all eyes remain on Gaza, waiting to see what the next chapter of this complex and multifaceted story will hold.