The ongoing conflict in Gaza has once again come to the forefront of international attention, with Board of Peace envoy Mladenov warning of a potential ceasefire collapse. In an interview with Al Jazeera, Mladenov emphasized the dire consequences of a return to war, highlighting the failure of both sides to adhere to the roadmap for peace. This failure, he argues, threatens the very foundation of the ceasefire in Gaza, a fragile region already grappling with the aftermath of Israeli raids and attacks.
One of the key aspects of this conflict is the proposed roadmap, a 15-point plan covering reconstruction, disarmament, Israeli withdrawal, and the deployment of the International Stabilization Force (ISF). The Board of Peace, with Morocco's participation, has determined the mechanism for the ISF's deployment in the Gaza Strip. However, the roadmap's progress has been hindered by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's rejection, despite Hamas's approval and the US's endorsement as the only viable path forward.
The situation on the ground paints a grim picture. Since the ceasefire's implementation in October 2025, Israeli fire has resulted in the tragic loss of 1,303 Palestinian lives and injured 4,336 more. The overall toll of Israel's genocidal war on Gaza since October 2023 is even more staggering, with 73,438 killed and 174,447 wounded. These numbers underscore the urgent need for a sustainable resolution to the conflict.
Diplomatic efforts are underway, with Hamas's political chief, Khalil al-Hayya, holding talks with Egyptian intelligence chief Hassan Rashad. The US envoy Jared Kushner's recent visit to the region aimed to bridge the gap between Israel and the Board of Peace's plan. However, analysts caution that securing genuine Israeli buy-in remains a significant challenge, despite months of mediation efforts.
The proposed National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, a technocratic authority to manage public services and coordinate reconstruction, offers a potential path forward. However, its effectiveness hinges on the willingness of all parties to embrace a peaceful resolution and adhere to the commitments of the roadmap. As the world watches, the fate of Gaza hangs in the balance, with the potential for a devastating return to war looming large.
