Rising violence tests a fragile ceasefire
The past 24 hours have underscored a harsh truth: peace in Gaza does not automatically endure when a ceasefire is declared. Despite high‑level assurances from U.S. President Donald Trump and other world leaders, violent episodes on the ground remind observers that the path to lasting stability remains narrow and uncertain.
A stark reminder of who holds the power
Video verified by Reuters shows seven men executed in a Gaza City square, with Hamas firing from behind as civilians look on. Whether described as “collaborators” or for other reasons, the killings serve as a chilling signal that Hamas is reasserting control over its territory. The imagery speaks to a broader reality: internal policing, punishment, and deterrence remain central to Hamas’s governance while the group negotiates how or whether to honor a broader ceasefire framework.
Implications for the ceasefire and relief aid
The executions, coupled with allegations that Hamas has mobilised thousands of fighters, complicate the immediate separation of ceasefire terms from ultimate political goals. Humanitarian relief remains a pivotal dimension of any peace arrangement. The question now is whether the 20-point plan—including a ceasefire, hostage releases, and provisions for deradicalisation—will be resilient enough to withstand a renewed cycle of violence.
The broader peace plan under scrutiny
The 20 points, championed by Trump, outline a road map that begins with a ceasefire and hostage releases while proposing amnesty for fighters who lay down arms and a new transitional authority in Gaza. Critics warn that some terms risk legitimising or empowering groups that have previously exploited conflict dynamics for political gain. Supporters argue that a practical sequence—ceasefire first, then gradual confidence-building—offers the best chance to restore aid flows and governance mechanisms that Gaza needs.
Humanitarian access and accountability
International bodies stress that any durable peace must include reliable aid deliveries. The Gaza Health Ministry and UN agencies say aid access must not be weaponised by political considerations. The World Food Programme and other agencies have warned against punitive measures that punish civilians for actions by Hamas, while recognising that aid must reach those most in need.
Who bears responsibility for day-to-day security?
With the Israeli Defence Forces maintaining a presence in parts of Gaza and police activity continuing in others, the risk of new flashpoints remains real. The IDF says it acts against threats that fail to comply with instructions, while Gaza authorities emphasise governance and deterrence measures. The interplay between Israeli security controls and Hamas’s reach inside Gaza creates a volatile backdrop for any promising ceasefire arrangement.
What comes next for peace negotiations?
Analysts caution that it is too early to declare the ceasefire irreversible or the broader peace plan doomed. The immediate priority is to prevent further bloodshed, restore reliable aid channels, and ensure that hostages and missing persons are treated in accordance with humanitarian norms. Governments and international organisations are watching closely to see if the deradicalisation aims can translate into tangible changes on the ground, and whether Hamas’s actions align with or undermine the terms of any deal.
Bottom line
The latest violence demonstrates how precarious any ceasefire is in a conflict marked by deep mistrust and overlapping conflicts of authority. If the 20-point plan is to gain traction beyond a fragile pause, it will require consistent compliance, credible humanitarian access, and a commitment from all sides to prioritise civilian protection over tactical advantage.
