Gaza faces security and reconstruction challenges amid political uncertainty

Nine months after a truce agreement took effect in the Gaza Strip, preparations for the post-war phase continue amidst lingering uncertainty about the political path and the potential for renewed conflict. Concepts for security, administration, and reconstruction are emerging, but most remain in the planning stages due to the absence of a comprehensive political agreement, security guarantees, and sustainable funding.

The security file presents the most prominent challenge. Israel maintains that the disarmament of Hamas is a fundamental condition for any future arrangements. Hamas, however, refuses this demand until a comprehensive political solution is reached, which includes establishing a Palestinian authority in Gaza and the withdrawal of the Israeli army. Despite this, an official from the "Peace Council," established by U.S. President Donald Trump, indicated that disarmament is no longer a prerequisite for implementing certain plans.

The council is working to establish a pilot "humanitarian zone" based on the assumption that Hamas will continue to refuse to relinquish its weapons. Four countries, Morocco, Kosovo, Albania, and Kazakhstan, have committed to participating in a project to create an international stabilization force under the council's umbrella. A logistical base near the Karam Abu Salem crossing is nearing completion and will be capable of hosting approximately 500 personnel before their potential deployment.

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disarmament is no longer a prerequisite for moving forward with the implementation of some plans.

Concurrently, preparations are underway to form a new Palestinian police force, with around 20,000 applications received. However, training programs have not yet commenced. Israel has rejected the current lists of recruits, deeming the proposed number of 5,000 officers to be excessive for the current stage. Reconstruction needs remain immense, with UN estimates suggesting years of work and tens of billions of dollars required. Progress in clearing rubble and importing building materials is slow, despite international funding pledges.

Administratively, Hamas has dissolved its governmental work committee, transferring its powers to a "National Committee for Gaza Management." This new body comprises independent Palestinian figures and was formed through the "Peace Council's" initiative to oversee the transitional phase. While Gaza ministry officials have begun coordinating with the committee, its members, temporarily residing in Cairo, have not yet been able to enter Gaza due to Israeli refusal. European and Arab officials emphasize that the success of any transitional arrangements hinges on a broader political framework that includes existing Palestinian institutions, particularly the Palestinian Authority. They caution that managing public services without control over security apparatuses and border crossings could limit the new administration's authority, especially if Hamas retains its weaponry.

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The United States is imposing a heavy cost by continuing to degrade Iran's ability to attack civilian mariners and commercial ships freely transiting the strait.