With one hostage's remains still in Gaza, the initial phase of the U.S.-mediated ceasefire in the conflict between Israel and Hamas is approaching completion, following a two-month period marked by delays and accusations.

At this juncture, the principal stakeholders comprising Israel, the Palestinian militant group Hamas, the United States, and a varied array of international entities are set to transition into a significantly more intricate second phase that has the potential to transform the Middle East.

U.S. President Donald Trump’s 20-point strategy which received endorsement from the U.N. Security Council presents an ambitious framework aimed at terminating Hamas’ governance in Gaza.

Should it succeed, this plan would facilitate the reconstruction of a demilitarized Gaza under international oversight, foster normalized relations between Israel and the Arab nations, and potentially create a route towards Palestinian autonomy.

Conversely, if the agreement falters, Gaza may find itself ensnared in a precarious state for many years, with Hamas retaining control over portions of the territory, the Israeli military maintaining an indefinite occupation, and its inhabitants facing homelessness, unemployment, restrictions on international travel, and reliance on foreign aid for survival.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, the Prime Minister of Qatar and an important mediator, stated over the weekend that the ceasefire is currently at a crucial juncture, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to visit the White House this month to deliberate on the forthcoming actions.