Hamas disarmament and Gaza’s post-war governance: What’s next in ‘phase two’ of Trump’s ceasefire plan

Donald Trump has indicated that a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas has entered its second phase, focusing on the disarmament of Hamas and the post-war governance of Gaza. While the first phase involved a ceasefire and hostage/detainee exchanges, the second phase is intended to rebuild Gaza and ensure lasting peace and security. Details of this second phase remain unclear, and Trump has acknowledged that the phases are intermingled and can be taken out of order. The immediate priorities for Gaza include the unrestricted flow of aid for food, water, shelter, energy, and medication. The long-term goal is to rebuild the enclave and guarantee security for both its population and Israel. International partners, including the United States, Arab, and European states, are reportedly willing to contribute to the estimated $70 billion cost of rebuilding. Trump's original plan stipulated Hamas laying down its weapons and disarming, allowing for a transitional government. While Hamas agreed to return hostages in exchange for detainees, the condition of disarmament was not explicitly mentioned, and a Hamas source stated that disarmament is "out of the question." However, Trump has suggested that Hamas has been approved to act as a Palestinian police force for a period, which could facilitate the eventual withdrawal of Israeli forces contingent on disarmament. A proposed International Stabilisation Force (ISF), comprising US, Arab, and international partners, is intended to train and support vetted police forces in Gaza to maintain the ceasefire and restore order. However, the specifics of the ISF's size, remit, and origin are still unknown, and its effectiveness depends on buy-in from Palestinian elements, including Hamas. Beyond Hamas, the plan envisions a transitional "technocratic and apolitical" government overseen by an international b... download the app to read more