Gaza — More than three months after a fragile ceasefire came into effect, the second phase of the Gaza peace plan has been unveiled, triggering fresh debate over whether the initiative genuinely aims to bring stability to the war-ravaged enclave or merely reshapes control under a new framework.
The newly announced phase introduces a high-profile governance and security structure led primarily by the United States. At the centre of the plan is a proposed “Gaza Board of Peace,” to be chaired by former US president Donald Trump. The board is expected to include influential figures such as Jared Kushner, Senator Marco Rubio, US envoy Steve Witkoff, and former British prime minister Tony Blair, raising questions about external dominance in Gaza’s future decision-making.
Alongside this political structure, a US general is set to head an International Stabilisation Force, tasked with overseeing security arrangements and the disarmament process in Gaza. While supporters claim this will help maintain order and prevent renewed violence, critics argue that the presence of foreign-led forces could deepen resentment and undermine local sovereignty.
Under the plan, Ali Shaath, a former Palestinian Authority official, has been named to lead a committee responsible for managing Gaza’s day-to-day civil affairs. However, doubts persist over how much real authority this committee will exercise, especially with a powerful international board overseeing strategic decisions.
Observers and analysts remain sceptical. Despite the ceasefire, Israeli military actions have reportedly continued, with civilian casualties still being recorded. This reality has cast a shadow over the peace plan, prompting concerns that the initiative may fail to address the deep-rooted humanitarian crisis facing Gaza’s population.
Critics also warn that the plan appears to prioritise economic restructuring and investment-driven recovery, potentially framing Gaza’s future as a “business project” rather than a rights-based political solution. Without a clear and credible roadmap toward Palestinian self-determination and an end to occupation, many fear the second phase could serve as a temporary arrangement that leaves the core conflict unresolved.
As Gaza enters this uncertain phase, the international community faces mounting pressure to ensure that reconstruction, governance, and security efforts genuinely reflect the will and welfare of the Palestinian people — rather than reinforcing external control under the banner of peace.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.