The ongoing crisis in Gaza underscores the resilience and determination of its people amid a backdrop of violence and suffering. As the region officially enters a new phase of ceasefire efforts, characterized by international oversight and proposed governance improvements, the hope for recovery rests uneasily against a history of tumult and loss. While optimism remains fragile, the daily lives of Gazans are intricately tied to the decisions made far from their homes, highlighting the profound disconnect between political maneuvers and the realities faced by those on the ground.
Gaza City – Peace, both physically and mentally, feels elusive for residents of Gaza. Since a ceasefire was declared on October 10, sporadic attacks by Israel have continued, resulting in the deaths of over 442 Palestinians in just three months. The ongoing siege, displacement, and dire living conditions contribute to a pervasive sense of hopelessness about any imminent improvements.
Amid this weary atmosphere, the United States announced on Wednesday the initiation of the ceasefire’s “second phase.” U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff described this phase as a transition from ceasefire to demilitarization, technocratic governance, and reconstruction. However, the proposed plan includes the establishment of a new Palestinian technocratic administration under the oversight of an international “Board of Peace,” chaired by President Donald Trump.
While these developments may appear constructive on paper, the reactions in Gaza are colored by a mix of cautious optimism and deep-seated skepticism, shaped by the traumatic experiences of the past two years. Arwa Ashour, a local journalist, expressed concerns that decisions made far from the realities of Gaza contribute to ongoing suffering. “People yearn for a return to normalcy with accessible schools and hospitals. If the Board of Peace can help achieve this, we welcome it; otherwise, it’s of little use.”
After enduring two years of war and over 18 years under Hamas governance, there is a palpable desire for change among Gazans. Many wish to have a role in shaping their future, rather than merely accepting externally imposed decisions. The governance model outlined in the ceasefire plan does integrate a Palestinian aspect, as Ali Shaath, a former deputy minister in the Palestinian Authority, is set to lead the new technocratic committee. However, it is clear that this committee will be subject to oversight by the Board of Peace, potentially limiting its effectiveness.
Maha Hussaini from the Euro-Med Human Rights Monitor warns against decisions being made without genuine Palestinian involvement, emphasizing that such an approach risks perpetuating existing power structures that benefit the occupiers. She insists that any quest for peace must also prioritize justice, emphasizing that peace devoid of accountability is merely a temporary pause that fails to address the ongoing injustices.
Political analyst Ahmed Fayyad suggests that despite the perceived foreign control with Mladenov and the Board of Peace, Palestinians feel they have little choice but to comply. Nevertheless, he acknowledges potential challenges ahead, such as the internal divisions between the Palestinian Authority in Ramallah and Hamas. Fayyad also raises concerns about the demilitarization process, which may be contingent upon Israel’s conditions, complicating an already intricate path to recovery.
The announcement of the second ceasefire phase, rather than signaling hope, appears misaligned with the grim realities faced by Gazans. Hussaini notes a prevailing sense of fear overshadowing any optimism, explaining that past experiences have created a hesitance among residents to trust in external interventions. “Hope exists, but it is delicate, constantly undermined by the absence of justice and external imposition of decisions.”
The daily struggle for survival occupies the thoughts of many in Gaza, such as Sami Balousha, a 30-year-old computer programmer, who defines peace not in political terms, but as the security to live without the fear of bombings. He has been displaced from his home 17 times over the past two years, illustrating the relentless turmoil that disrupts the lives of many Gazans.
Balousha emphasizes the disconnect between international policymakers and the realities of Gazans, lamenting the absence of understanding regarding their needs. He reflects a profound sense of despair that the current state of horror will persist indefinitely. “We are tired, so incredibly tired,” Balousha states. “All we desire is an end to this suffering, at any cost. People just want to live.”
#MiddleEastNews #CultureNews