The ‘Board of Peace’ has released a detailed 15-point roadmap for implementing the final phase of a ceasefire plan in the besieged Gaza Strip. This plan, proposed by US President Donald Trump, includes specific conditions for the phased withdrawal of Israeli troops from Palestinian territories and the disarmament of the armed group Hamas.
Hamas announced yesterday, Friday, that it agrees to the terms of this agreement. However, there has been no official reaction or statement from Israel regarding the matter so far.
The published roadmap highlights several key aspects concerning the establishment of lasting peace and administrative restructuring in Gaza:
Cessation of Military Operations and Transfer of Responsibility
Under the plan, Israel, Hamas, and other Palestinian armed groups must completely halt all military operations. A schedule and methodology for implementation will be finalized within 14 days of the agreement’s approval (this timeframe may be extended if necessary). Subsequently, the ‘National Committee for the Administration of Gaza’ (NCAG) will enter the Gaza Strip and begin assuming administrative responsibilities.
Verification Committee and Administrative Principles
Progression from one stage of the proposed roadmap to the next will depend on verifying whether commitments from the preceding stage have been properly fulfilled. A newly formed ‘International Verification Committee’ (IVC) will oversee this process. They will also monitor whether any party violates the terms of the agreement. Governance in Gaza will be conducted based on the principle of “one authority, one law, one weapon.” The NCAG will carry out its operations in accordance with Palestinian law and international standards.
Reform and Restructuring of the Police Force
Newly trained police personnel will be integrated into the existing police structure. However, the past records and qualifications of all members will undergo rigorous vetting prior to inclusion. Those who fail to meet the eligibility criteria will be offered opportunities for alternative civilian employment. Furthermore, the NCAG will have full control over all types of police weaponry.
Neutralization of Weapons and Tunnels, and Troop Withdrawal
All heavy weaponry, military manufacturing facilities, stockpiles, and tunnels belonging to Hamas will be neutralized and secured. The NCAG will oversee this process in phases and within a specified timeframe. This process will also entail the phased withdrawal of troops from Israeli-controlled areas of Gaza and the disarmament of other armed militias. Weapons may not be transferred to Israel or any party outside Palestine. Upon completion of the process, the NCAG will be the sole entity authorized to possess or control weapons in Gaza.
Social Peace Agreement
A ‘Social Peace Agreement’ will be signed, committing to the prevention of internal violence in Gaza and the cessation of all forms of retaliatory actions, displays of force, or armed drills.
Deployment of an International Stabilization Force (ISF)
A temporary ‘International Stabilization Force’ (ISF) will be deployed in the Gaza Strip to maintain separation between Israeli forces and areas controlled by the NCAG. This force will monitor compliance with the ceasefire by all parties, provide training to the Palestinian police, ensure the secure delivery of humanitarian aid and emergency supplies, and offer comprehensive support to the NCAG. However, the ISF will not undertake the maintenance of internal law and order within Palestinian society or perform direct policing duties.