What's happened
As of December 11, 2025, the Gaza ceasefire brokered by the US and regional mediators since October 10 remains fragile. Hamas is open to a weapons freeze but rejects full disarmament demanded by Israel under Trump's 20-point plan. Israeli forces maintain control over half of Gaza, with ongoing disputes over prisoner exchanges, international peacekeeping deployment, and the reopening of border crossings.
What's behind the headline?
Fragility of the Ceasefire and Political Complexities
The ceasefire in Gaza, while halting large-scale hostilities since October 10, 2025, remains precarious due to deep mistrust and conflicting objectives between Israel and Hamas. Hamas's willingness to consider a weapons "freeze" rather than full disarmament reflects its insistence on retaining military leverage, viewing disarmament as a loss of identity and security. Israel's firm stance on demilitarizing Gaza under the 20-point plan, coupled with its control over half the territory and insistence on disarmament before further withdrawal, underscores the impasse.
International Stabilization Force: Challenges Ahead
The proposed international stabilization force (ISF) is central to the second phase but faces significant hurdles. Hamas opposes ISF presence inside Gaza, equating it to occupation, while Israel rejects Turkish participation due to Ankara's support for Hamas. The lack of clarity on ISF's composition, command, and rules of engagement delays deployment, risking further instability.
Regional Mediation and Political Stakes
Qatar, Turkey, Egypt, and the US are key mediators pushing for progress, but regional politics complicate consensus. Qatar's open channel with Hamas is pivotal for negotiations but draws Israeli criticism. Germany's support for Israel and its role in humanitarian aid highlight international divisions. Netanyahu's cautious diplomacy, influenced by legal concerns and coalition politics, adds uncertainty.
Outlook and Consequences
The ceasefire's success hinges on resolving prisoner issues, reopening border crossings for aid, and agreeing on disarmament and governance structures. Without these, the truce risks collapse, potentially reigniting violence. The broader conflict's root causes—Palestinian statehood and Israeli security concerns—remain unaddressed, limiting long-term peace prospects. The international community's role, especially the US, will be decisive in navigating these complexities and preventing further escalation.
What the papers say
The New Arab and France 24 provide detailed accounts of Hamas leader Khaled Meshaal's rejection of full disarmament, emphasizing a weapons "freeze" as a compromise. Meshaal told Al Jazeera that disarmament "strips away the soul" of Palestinians, while expressing openness to international forces only along Gaza's border, not inside the territory. France 24 adds that Hamas views ISF presence inside Gaza as an occupation, contrasting with Israel's insistence on demilitarization.
Reuters and The New York Times report on the death of Yasser Abu Shabab, leader of an Israeli-backed anti-Hamas militia in Gaza, highlighting internal divisions and the complexity of local power dynamics. This development underscores challenges to stabilizing Gaza beyond the ceasefire.
Statements from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, reported by The Times of Israel and The New Arab, stress the imminent start of the second phase involving Hamas disarmament and Israeli withdrawal, though progress is stalled by unresolved hostage returns and political opposition. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz's visit and support for Israel, alongside his acknowledgment of the two-state solution's complexity, illustrate international diplomatic balancing acts.
Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, cited by The Independent and AP News, stresses that the ceasefire is a "pause" rather than a full peace, insisting on full Israeli withdrawal and stability before advancing. Turkey's Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan voices concerns over ISF formation, reflecting regional skepticism.
Overall, the sources reveal a multifaceted, fragile ceasefire with competing narratives and interests, highlighting the difficulty of transitioning from truce to lasting peace.
How we got here
The ceasefire followed Hamas's deadly October 7, 2023 attack on Israel and subsequent Israeli military retaliation. The US-sponsored 20-point plan aims for phased peace: initial truce and hostage exchanges, Israeli troop withdrawal with international stabilization, and eventual Gaza reconstruction and demilitarization. Progress has been slow amid mutual accusations of violations and political disagreements.
Go deeper
- What are the main obstacles to the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire?
- How is the international stabilization force expected to operate in Gaza?
- What role are Qatar and Turkey playing in mediating the Gaza conflict?
Common question
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What is the current situation with Hamas fighters in Gaza?
The ongoing crisis in Gaza involves Hamas fighters trapped in tunnels near Rafah, amid complex negotiations for their safe exit. With international mediators involved and Israel refusing unconditional safe passage, many are wondering what this means for civilians and the broader conflict. Below, we explore key questions about the situation, the risks involved, and efforts to resolve the crisis.
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What Are the Biggest News Stories Today?
Stay updated with the top headlines shaping the world today. From US health policy changes to international conflicts, these stories are crucial for understanding current events. Curious about how these events connect or what they mean for you? Read on for clear, concise answers to your most pressing questions.
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What is the current status of Hamas fighters trapped in Gaza tunnels?
The situation in Gaza remains tense as Hamas fighters are trapped in tunnels under Rafah amid ongoing military operations and international negotiations. Many are asking what happens next for these fighters and civilians caught in the conflict. Below, we explore the latest updates, humanitarian concerns, and possible outcomes of this complex situation.
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What Are the Latest Developments in Gaza Ceasefire Talks?
The Gaza ceasefire negotiations are ongoing, with complex discussions involving multiple international mediators. While a fragile ceasefire is in place, tensions remain high as both sides negotiate over key issues like the safe passage of Hamas fighters and humanitarian aid. Curious about the current state of these talks and what they mean for the region? Below, we explore the latest updates and answer common questions about this critical situation.
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What is happening in Gaza with the tunnels and ceasefire?
The conflict in Gaza remains complex and tense, especially around the tunnels where Hamas fighters are trapped. International efforts are ongoing to broker peace, but challenges persist. Many are wondering why fighters are stuck underground, what the latest diplomatic moves are, and how the humanitarian crisis is evolving. Here’s a clear look at the current situation and what it means for Gaza and beyond.
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What Is Happening in Gaza Right Now?
The situation in Gaza remains complex and tense, with ongoing clashes, military operations, and international efforts to find a resolution. People are asking about the current events, safe passages, humanitarian concerns, and how global mediators are involved. Below, you'll find answers to these pressing questions to help you understand the latest developments in Gaza.
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Why Is the Gaza Ceasefire Still Fragile?
The Gaza ceasefire, initiated in October 2025, remains fragile despite ongoing efforts to stabilize the region. Ongoing violence, political disagreements, and unresolved issues like Israeli troop withdrawals and Hamas control continue to threaten the peace. Many wonder what makes this ceasefire so delicate and what obstacles still stand in the way of lasting peace. Below, we explore the key questions surrounding the current situation in Gaza.
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Is the Gaza Ceasefire Holding or Falling Apart?
The Gaza ceasefire brokered in December 2025 remains fragile, with ongoing tensions and conflicting reports about its status. Many wonder whether the truce is holding or if violence is escalating again. Here, we explore the current situation, key issues, and what it means for the region. If you're following the news, you might also be asking about aid deliveries, violations, and the prospects for peace. Read on to get clear answers to these pressing questions.
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Why Is the Gaza Ceasefire So Fragile Right Now?
The Gaza ceasefire, brokered by international mediators, remains fragile amid ongoing disputes and political tensions. Understanding the key demands of Hamas and Israel, the role of international mediators, and what could threaten the peace further can help clarify this complex situation. Below, we explore the main questions surrounding the current state of the Gaza ceasefire and what challenges lie ahead.
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What Are the Main Global News Stories Today?
Stay informed with the latest updates from around the world. From fragile ceasefires in Gaza to political delays in the UK, and significant events in business and education, these stories are shaping today's news landscape. Curious about how these events connect or impact global stability? Keep reading for clear, concise answers to your top questions.
More on these topics
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Hamas is a Palestinian Sunni-Islamic fundamentalist militant organization. It has a social service wing, Dawah, and a military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades.
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Gaza most commonly refers to:
Gaza Strip, a Palestinian territory on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea
Gaza City, a city in the Gaza Strip
Gaza may also refer to:
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Israel, formally known as the State of Israel, is a country in Western Asia, located on the southeastern shore of the Mediterranean Sea and the northern shore of the Red Sea.
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Donald John Trump is an American politician, media personality, and businessman who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021.
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Benjamin Netanyahu is an Israeli politician serving as Prime Minister of Israel since 2009, and previously from 1996 to 1999. Netanyahu is also the Chairman of the Likud – National Liberal Movement.
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The Israel Defense Forces, commonly known in Israel by the Hebrew acronym Tzahal, are the military forces of the State of Israel. They consist of the ground forces, air force, and navy. It is the sole military wing of the Israeli security forces, and has
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Qatar, officially the State of Qatar, is a country located in Western Asia, occupying the small Qatar Peninsula on the northeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula.
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The Gaza Strip, or simply Gaza, is a self-governing Palestinian territory on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, that borders Egypt on the southwest for 11 kilometers and Israel on the east and north along a 51 km border.
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Rafah is a Palestinian city in the southern Gaza Strip. It is the district capital of the Rafah Governorate, located 30 kilometers south of Gaza City. Rafah's population of 152,950 is overwhelmingly made up of former Palestinian refugees.
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The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.
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Egypt, officially the Arab Republic of Egypt, is a transcontinental country spanning the northeast corner of Africa and southwest corner of Asia by a land bridge formed by the Sinai Peninsula.
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Turkey, officially the Republic of Turkey, is a transcontinental country located mainly on the Anatolian peninsula in Western Asia, with a smaller portion on the Balkan peninsula in Southeastern Europe.