A potential roadmap, negotiated through the U.S. President's Board of Peace, has introduced the possibility of Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups disarming in stages. The plan envisions a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, followed by the transition of governance to a Palestinian administration supported by international monitors and a stabilization force. However, the agreement remains conditional, as Israel has raised security concerns and stated it will not withdraw until disarmament occurs.
Beyond the logistical challenges of security and governance, the proposal has ignited debate regarding international law and accountability. The current peace plan has drawn criticism for appearing to offer amnesty to Hamas leadership, while remaining silent on potential immunity for Israeli political and military figures. This focus on security over justice risks leaving deep-seated grievances unaddressed, which analysts suggest could jeopardize long-term reconciliation.
The role of the International Criminal Court (ICC) remains central to these tensions. Despite the court issuing arrest warrants in 2024 for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, and Hamas military commander Mohammed Deif, the institution faces significant uncertainty. The ICC is currently navigating internal instability following the removal of Prosecutor Karim Khan, alongside explicit opposition from the Trump administration, which has signaled an intent to dismantle the court.
Historical precedents from the former Yugoslavia, Rwanda, and Northern Ireland suggest that while legal accountability and the decommissioning of weapons are important, they are not sufficient on their own to ensure peace. Experts note that successful transitions require the establishment of robust institutions to manage political disputes and a commitment to addressing the trauma of both communities. Without a framework that balances physical reconstruction with genuine accountability, a durable resolution in Gaza may remain elusive.
Source: The Conversation
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