A fragile ceasefire agreement has brought temporary calm to the Gaza Strip, but experts warn that the war is far from over. The deal, which has been unchanged since President Donald Trump’s administration offered a framework for a peace plan, presents significant challenges for Israel and the Palestinian Authority.
Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces pressure from his right-wing coalition partners, who have threatened to quit if he doesn’t deliver on their demands. A new budget and bill over conscripting ultra-Orthodox Jews could create further conflict with far-right parties. Additionally, Netanyahu’s approval ratings remain low among centrist voters.
The ceasefire deal is seen as a positive step for Palestinians, who will see an end to the killing and imprisonment of prisoners. However, Mustafa Barghouti, a member of the Palestinian Legislative Council, warns that there are no guarantees the deal will hold.
The agreement also raises concerns over Iran’s nuclear program, which has been enriching uranium at an alarming rate. Both Israel and the United States have vowed to prevent an Iranian bomb, but President Trump is thought unlikely to want to get dragged into another war.
As Netanyahu navigates these complex issues, he must contend with a U.S. president who will be pro-Israeli but also forceful in demanding his interest. The situation remains fluid, with multiple parties vying for influence and power.
The Gaza ceasefire deal presents a significant challenge for Netanyahu, who is struggling to maintain control over his coalition government. With the far-right parties on the brink of defection, Netanyahu faces an uncertain future that could be shaped by his decisions on key issues like the peace plan, budget, and conscription bill.
Ultimately, the fate of the ceasefire deal will depend on Netanyahu’s ability to navigate these complex issues and build a lasting regional peace. However, with the war far from over, it remains to be seen whether he can overcome his domestic challenges and deliver on his promises to Israel and the Palestinians.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/20/world/europe/gaza-war-fighting-ceasefire-hamas-israel.html