Despite the ceasefire announced in October, Israel’s continued violations of the truce have deepened Palestinian suffering and cast serious doubt on the durability of the agreement. Since October 7, 2023, the death toll in Gaza has risen to 71,439, with more than 171,000 wounded — figures that underscore the staggering human cost of the ongoing aggression.
Even after the ceasefire took effect on October 10, violations have persisted. At least 449 Palestinians have been killed and 1,246 injured during this period, while 710 bodies have been recovered from the rubble. The humanitarian crisis has been further compounded by winter conditions, with building collapses claiming additional lives and bringing the total number of such victims to 25. Against this grim backdrop, cautious optimism emerged this week with the announcement of the start of the second phase of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza. The declaration, made by the United States’ Special Envoy to the Middle East, followed intensive diplomatic efforts led by Qatar, Egypt, and Türkiye, whose mediation was widely acknowledged as indispensable to the progress achieved thus far.
The second phase of the agreement outlines critical steps, including the establishment of a Palestinian technocratic transitional administration (the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza) and the launch of comprehensive reconstruction efforts across the Strip. These measures, if implemented in good faith, could lay the groundwork for stability after months of devastation.
In a joint statement, Qatar, Egypt, and Türkiye welcomed the formation of the Palestinian technocratic committee, calling it an important development that could strengthen stability and improve humanitarian conditions in Gaza. The mediators expressed hope that this step would accelerate the implementation of the second phase of the agreement and prevent a renewed escalation of violence.
Qatar reaffirmed its commitment to de-escalation and civilian protection, emphasising the need for unrestricted humanitarian aid and the immediate commencement of reconstruction to restore dignified living conditions for Gaza’s population. It also stressed the responsibility of the international community to support efforts aimed at sustaining the ceasefire and advancing prospects for lasting peace.
Ultimately, ceasefires cannot survive on diplomatic statements alone. They require accountability, full compliance by all parties, and sustained international engagement. For Gaza’s civilians, who have endured unimaginable loss, peace must mean more than a pause in bombardment. It must deliver security, reconstruction, and a future free from perpetual crisis.
