On December 7, 2025, the U.S. is gearing up to move the Gaza peace process into Phase 2, aiming to build on the October ceasefire and bring Hamas into a step-by-step disarmament plan. President Donald Trump is expected to make the announcement before Christmas 🎄.
What is Phase 2? 🕊️ It centers on a phased disarmament of Hamas, a further pullback of Israeli forces, the deployment of an international stabilization force (ISF) as peacekeepers, and the launch of a transitional "Board of Peace" governance body.
The October 10 truce has been fragile: Israeli strikes have killed 366 Palestinians, and retaliatory Hamas attacks have hit several Israeli soldiers. Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani warned at the Doha Forum that the ceasefire is at a critical tipping point.
Under proposals from the U.S., Qatar, Egypt and Türkiye, Hamas could begin handing over heavy weapons first, then move to lighter arms—think surrendering tanks before rifles—once key conditions are met, like a full Israeli withdrawal and restored freedom of movement for Gaza residents 🔑.
Khalil al-Hayya, Hamas' Gaza head, told Al Jazeera that weapons are tied to occupation. "If the occupation ends, we'll hand them over to the state," he said, but cautioned talks are still early. Abroad leader Khaled Mashal also pushed back on any outside trusteeship: "Gaza must be governed by Palestinians."
If Phase 2 launches smoothly, it could steer Gaza away from large-scale fighting and set a new political reset. For young changemakers across South and Southeast Asia, this next chapter is a reminder of how global diplomacy and grassroots voices can shape fragile peace. Stay tuned as the U.S. pushes for progress before the year wraps up ✌️
Reference(s):
U.S. seeks move to Phase 2 as Hamas signals willingness to disarm
cgtn.com
