Trump Administration Advances Iraq-Hamas Plan

This week, the Trump administration officially moved into the second phase of its initiative aimed at resolving the conflict between Israel and Hamas. This new phase transitions from a ceasefire framework to focusing on political and security outcomes for Gaza. It raises an important question: who will take on the task of disarming Hamas?

Steve Witkoff, the U.S. special envoy for the Middle East, announced on Wednesday that they’re entering this next phase, which he described as a move from ceasefire to demilitarization and then to governance and rebuilding. He emphasized that Hamas needs to meet its obligations under the agreement, including swiftly returning the remaining deceased Israeli hostage.

Witkoff stated, “The U.S. expects Hamas to fully comply with its commitments. Any failure will lead to serious repercussions,” in a post on X.

Following these statements, President Trump on Thursday reiterated the administration’s message, sharing on Truth Social that the U.S. has officially entered the next stage of its 20-point peace plan for Gaza. He claimed that since the cessation of hostilities, his administration has provided record levels of humanitarian assistance to the region, which he noted has been recognized as “unprecedented” even by the United Nations.

Trump indicated that these developments have set the stage for future steps, like backing the newly established Palestinian technocratic government to manage Gaza during this transition. He identified himself as the chair of the Peace Council, stating that its senior representative would assist in this effort.

Again, Trump insisted that Hamas must “immediately uphold its commitments,” which includes facilitating the return of individuals to Israel and progressing toward complete demilitarization, warning that they have the option to do this easily or face more severe consequences. “The people of Gaza have suffered long enough. The time is now, peace through strength,” he concluded.

The new phase aims to create an interim Palestinian administration in Gaza while the U.S. collaborates with Egypt and others in the region for compliance and stability. Yet, there aren’t many specifics on how disarmament of Hamas will actually occur after years of its military presence.

Global Perspectives on Ceasefire and Demilitarization

In an exclusive interview, Jérôme Bonnafon, France’s Ambassador to the U.N., praised the ceasefire as “an incredible achievement,” suggesting that the next phase could lay a foundation for peace in the absence of Hamas. He stated, “President Trump’s plan for a ceasefire is significant. We need substantial humanitarian assistance to resume, and an announcement about this will come shortly.”

He outlined that steps ahead involve an international stabilization force aiding reconstruction and contributing to Hamas’s disarmament.

Meanwhile, Bonnafon highlighted France’s commitment to Israel’s security, especially regarding threats from the region, while also advocating for a peaceful Palestinian state. “For Israel’s long-term safety, we believe a demilitarized Palestine in harmony with Israel is essential,” he remarked.

The U.N. welcomed the announcement regarding the new phase, calling it a crucial step while emphasizing adherence to international law and existing resolutions.

Challenges Ahead

Security experts from Israel and the U.S. largely agree: this second phase hinges on addressing Hamas’s armament. Dr. Abner Golov from Mind Israel noted, “The main challenge is effectively demilitarizing Hamas. The Israelis are likely the only ones willing to dismantle their military capabilities, and as long as they are armed, there won’t be reconstruction or withdrawal of Israeli troops.”

He remarked on the discrepancy between diplomatic assurances and the intentions of regional players, highlighting Turkey and Qatar’s commitments to disarm Hamas, but pointing out their lack of follow-through.

Concerns About Reconstruction

Jonathan Ruhe from the Jewish Institute for National Security Studies indicated that while the peace plan details reconstruction strategies for Gaza, it fails to address the crucial questions of who will disarm Hamas and how that will happen. “As long as Hamas remains capable of disrupting aid and intimidating those wanting a better future, any international investment will be virtually non-existent,” he stated.

While the plan anticipates Hamas voluntarily disarming, Ruhe noted that the group feels victorious and won’t easily give up its arms. “It’s urgent that we decide who will forcefully disarm Hamas,” he said, suggesting U.N. resolutions support using an international force for this purpose, although no nation similarly agrees to take on that role.

Both Trump and Netanyahu have mentioned Israel undertaking the disarmament of Hamas. However, Ruhe pointed out that military forces need recuperation after lengthy combat, and a major operation could jeopardize international coalitions necessary for future phases.

A Narrowing Window

Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, experts caution that time may not be on their side. “Current conditions favor Hamas, who continues to tighten its hold on Gaza,” Ruhe observed, adding that the announcement, despite its diplomatic importance, won’t bear fruit without Hamas’s disarmament.

Mr. Golov echoed this sentiment, stating, “As long as Hamas remains armed, reconstruction should not commence, nor should Israeli forces disengage from their positions.”