Israel and Hamas Ceasefire: What’s Next in the Ongoing Peace Efforts?

As discussions intensify regarding the Israel-Hamas ceasefire, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced the potential for a second phase in the peace process, scheduled to begin soon. Following a joint press conference with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on December 7, 2025, Netanyahu expressed optimism that this phase could commence as early as the end of the month, contingent on certain key developments.

The Significance of Delivering Remains

A crucial element for the transition to the second phase hinges on Hamas returning the remains of Ran Gvili, a 24-year-old police officer and one of the last hostages taken during a violent attack on October 7, 2023. This handover is more than a singular act; it is viewed as a necessary step in restoring trust between both sides as they embark on more complex negotiations regarding disarmament and troop withdrawals from Gaza.

The International Role in Gaza's Future

Netanyahu highlighted that the second stage of the ceasefire will not only address the disarmament of Hamas, but will also involve the deployment of an international force to maintain order within Gaza. Additionally, the establishment of a temporary Palestinian government is being proposed, which would operate under the supervision of an international entity led by President Donald Trump. This framework aims to facilitate governance and ensure that aid reaches those in need.

Parallel Challenges: Disarming Hamas and International Dynamics

The discussions surrounding the disarmament of Hamas pose a significant challenge. A senior official from Hamas indicated readiness to discuss the option of "freezing or storing" their weapons as part of the peace talks. Achieving a long-term cessation of violence requires not just cooperation but a robust international support framework to oversee and facilitate effective governance in Gaza.

A Three-Phase Plan: Beyond the Ceasefire

Netanyahu acknowledged the difficulties faced in moving beyond the initial ceasefire into its subsequent phases. He pointed to previous historical instances—from post-war Germany and Japan to the modernization efforts in the Gulf States—as catalysts for successful deradicalization of factions that once threatened their regions. Despite this, the Prime Minister reiterated that dismantling Hamas remains a prerequisite for meaningful progress.

Local and Global Perspectives on Ceasefire Progress

The ceasefire has provided a temporary reprieve, allowing humanitarian aid to reach hundreds of thousands in Gaza. However, residents there continue to grapple with significant loss and displacement following ongoing military actions, with reports indicating over 70,000 Palestinian casualties throughout the conflict. This disparity in narratives—between those advocating for peace and those entrenched in the suffering of war—fuels ongoing tension in international perspectives on the peace process.

Hostage Families Demand Action

A statement by families of hostages reflects the broader sentiment of urgency surrounding the return of Gvili's remains: “We cannot advance to the next phase before Ran Gvili returns home.” The emotional weight of these statements emphasizes the personal stakes involved, often overshadowing political posturing and strategies.

Netanyahu and Merkel’s Diplomatic Relations

The diplomatic relationship between Germany and Israel remains critical. Chancellor Merz reiterated Germany's unwavering support for Israel during his visit. He emphasized that while a two-state solution is optimal, it can only be achieved following concrete actions leading to stability and security. Such statements underscore the continuing global diplomatic dynamics and their potential influence on the effectiveness of proposed ceasefire measures.

The Future of Gaza and Recommendations for Observers

As we look forward to these developments, observers must remain critical of not just what happens in negotiations but the actions that follow. This includes monitoring humanitarian efforts, reassessments of military operations, and the tangible impacts on the lives of civilians affected by decades of conflict.

Ultimately, understanding the complexities of this ongoing situation not only enriches the conversation around Middle Eastern politics but also highlights the human stories at the heart of international peace efforts. Keeping abreast of developments in this region is crucial for informed engagement and advocacy, prompting the global community's ongoing support for effective peace-building.

This unfolding situation requires our vigilance and active engagement to promote dialogue and construct pathways to a lasting resolution that honors both Israeli and Palestinian narratives, aspirations, and rights.