A Fresh Look at the Israel-Hamas Peace Deal: What's Next?

Two former U. S. secretaries of state, Hillary Clinton and Condoleezza Rice, recently shared their thoughts on the Israel-Hamas peace deal. They praised President Trump's efforts but also cautioned that the road ahead is uncertain. The deal, signed just days ago, includes Hamas releasing all remaining hostages from the October 2023 attack and Israel withdrawing its military from parts of Gaza. President Trump calls this the first step in a larger 20-point plan to end the two-year war. He plans to visit the Middle East soon to oversee the hostages' return. Clinton and Rice spoke about the challenges ahead. They acknowledged that while the deal is a positive step, its success is not guaranteed. Both emphasized that the involved parties must work together closely to make it happen. One major hurdle is rebuilding Gaza. Clinton described this task as difficult and time-consuming. She urged the U. S. and other countries to support the peace process both nationally and internationally. Rice pointed out that a two-state solution might not be possible right now. However, she suggested that Palestinians should start preparing for a future state by implementing reforms and recognizing Israel's existence. She also stressed the importance of changing how Israel is taught about in Palestinian schools. Clinton criticized Israel's recent attack on Hamas leaders in Qatar, calling it a mistake that created an opportunity for Trump's negotiators. She praised the negotiators for seizing this chance to bring regional powers together and push for peace. The deal has raised some questions. For example, it's unclear how quickly Israel will withdraw from Gaza or who will take control of the region. The plan also mentions an independent Palestinian state as a goal, but it's not clear when discussions on statehood will begin. The Israel-Palestinian conflict has been a challenge for many U. S. administrations. Clinton and Rice both worked towards a two-state solution during their time in office, but political support was lacking. Some critics argue that past administrations did not use enough pressure on Israel to make concessions. Trump's pressure on the Netanyahu government seems to have played a key role in this current deal.