After two years in captivity, twenty hostages held by Hamas have finally returned to their families.
This development fulfills Israel’s strict demands, offering hope to the families and representing a significant achievement for President Trump.
However, numerous challenges still lie ahead. Key issues include the return of those who were murdered, violations of the ceasefire, the establishment of an International Stability Force (ISF) in Gaza, and the disarmament of Hamas.
To successfully navigate these hurdles, President Trump needs to stay vigilant regarding U.S. interests, Israeli security, and the future of Palestinians, particularly in weighing aid proposals from Turkey and Qatar.
The peace plan for Gaza outlines a 72-hour timeframe for the return of all hostages, whether they are alive or deceased, following Israel’s public endorsement of the agreement.
That deadline has come and gone, leaving the families of the thirteen murdered hostages still in anguish, waiting for any progress.
If Hamas does not fulfill its commitments to return the bodies, anger will likely surge among Israelis, potentially complicating future negotiations for the U.S.
Maintaining the fragile ceasefire also remains a daunting task.
The gravest ceasefire breach thus far occurred on Sunday when gunfire, believed to be from Hamas operatives, killed two Israeli soldiers and injured others.
Consequently, the Israeli military retaliated with airstrikes on Hamas targets.
Establishing a stabilization force meant to provide long-term security in Gaza will also prove challenging.
This initiative demands well-trained and armed personnel ready to confront Hamas and other extremist groups, even at the risk of casualties.
It’s unlikely Hamas will willingly disarm, unlike historical surrenders like that at Yorktown in 1781.
So, what should be the next steps?
First off, Washington shouldn’t invite problematic allies into the situation.
Experts suggest Egypt, Azerbaijan, Indonesia, and Turkey could be potential contributors to the stabilization force.
While Egypt should play a leading role, and Azerbaijan and Indonesia may also be helpful, President Trump might reconsider including Turkish forces in Gaza.
In the aftermath of the horrific attacks on October 7, Turkish President Erdoğan praised Hamas and welcomed its leaders.
Following the sentencing of Haniya in Tehran last July, Erdoğan declared a national day of mourning, demonstrating his open support for the group.
Erdoğan has consistently denied that Hamas is a terrorist organization.
If the aim is to dismantle Hamas, Turkey appears to be an unsuitable partner.
On a parallel note, Qatar had been injecting hundreds of millions of dollars in aid into Gaza prior to October 7.
While Israel hoped this influx would temper Hamas, it seems much of that money has instead bolstered Hamas’s military capacity.
Concerns linger that Qatar’s financial influence only exacerbates the situation.
Although these two nations have mediated in some capacity, it would be unwise for President Trump to depend on them to play a constructive role in addressing Hamas.
If they wish to assist, Trump should insist they leverage connections with the Muslim Brotherhood to counteract Hamas.
They must ensure the return of all murdered hostages, halt all ceasefire violations, disarm, and encourage Hamas to cease its attacks on other Palestinians.
If Turkey and Qatar refuse to take such actions, President Trump should clarify that Israeli military responses against Hamas could recommence, placing the onus on the terrorist organization’s backers in Ankara and Doha.
The return of these twenty hostages is a heartfelt moment for their families and a notable success for the Trump administration.
To capitalize on this progress and pursue lasting peace for both Israelis and Palestinians, President Trump should approach future negotiations with a healthy level of skepticism.
