Negotiations to cease firing in Gaza are nearing completion. The parties have reached an agreement on several key points. However, there is one issue — it still remains a hurdle. The issue is: the status of the Israeli army in Gaza and how long they will remain there.
According to “Sky News,” the negotiations taking place in Qatar are being blocked by this particular point between the parties. Israel faces a choice:
1. Stop the war, return hostages, and leave the area
2. Maintain military control over Gaza for an indefinite period.
What agreements have been made?
The parties have agreed on the following matters:
A 60-day ceasefire period. During this time, Israel must not resume warfare – this is guaranteed by the USA.
Humanitarian aid delivery. Neither HAMAS nor Israel will control the areas vacated by the Israeli army. A neutral, third party will operate there.
Nevertheless, the Gaza Humanitarian Fund (GHF) cannot operate in areas without Israeli soldiers, which remains a significant restriction on aid delivery.
Israel's main war objective: not only the hostages
Israel's official stance:
“We must completely eliminate HAMAS, not only as a military force but also a political one.”
This situation puts in doubt the possibility of Israel's full withdrawal from Gaza. That is, even if Israel agrees to peace, it might not hurry to end its military involvement in the sector altogether.
How did the war start?
October 7, 2023 - HAMAS launches an unexpected attack on southern Israel. As a result, approximately 1,200 people die, and 251 are taken hostage.
Today, in the summer of 2025, it is reported that about 20 of them might still be alive.
Currently, it has been revealed that over 57,000 Palestinians have died as a result of Israeli retaliation attacks in Gaza.
The road to peace — how close?
The only issue — the status of the Israeli army — until resolved, signing peace remains difficult. However, international pressure is increasing, as thousands of innocent civilians continue to become victims, making it increasingly urgent to put an end to the war.
