Expert: First phase of Gaza ceasefire reached, focus shifts to implementation

With Israel and Hamas confirming the initial phase of a Gaza ceasefire agreement, the over two-year-long conflict has finally experienced some temporary respite. A Chinese expert on Middle East issues has said that the focus has now shifted to executing and ensuring the long-term success of the peace deal.

"It is a very important moment for peace," said Wang Jin, director of the Center for International Strategic Studies at Northwest University in China. He also cautioned that the future remains uncertain, with significant challenges ahead, including the formation of a new government in Gaza, the rebuilding of its war-torn economy and the role of Hamas in the region.

Calling the agreement "a great day for Israel," Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he will convene his government on Thursday to approve it.

Although some of the cabinet ministers are far-right and ultra-right nationalists who believe Netanyahu has made too many concessions to end the war, Wang said phase one of the deal is likely to be approved.

Netanyahu has promised to push for the approval of the deal, the expert noted, adding that dissatisfaction among right-wing politicians might be offset by other political arrangements on issues like new settlements in the West Bank.

Wang cautioned that there is a high chance that strikes will resume after the first phase, and fresh obstacles and sensitive issues will likely arise related to new mechanisms related to Hamas' role.

Israel doesn't want Hamas to play a significant role in the Gaza Strip, but Hamas wants to continue to do so, he noted. 

The expert said that in a month or two, fighting could happen again.

Regarding the reconstruction of post-war Gaza, Wang said a more reliable and sustainable government is required, along with extensive global aid, and peace between Israel and Palestine.

He urged greater efforts to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza, adding that the people there are suffering not only from the war but also from a humanitarian crisis.