The current peace in Gaza is a fragile one, existing under a virtual Sword of Damocles held by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. As he prepares to welcome President Donald Trump, Netanyahu has made it clear that the ceasefire is a conditional and temporary state, contingent on Israel’s security demands being met.
His stark warning that the “sword is still on its neck” in reference to Hamas encapsulates Israel’s position. The truce was accepted not as an end to the war, but as a tactical means to achieve the return of hostages. The larger strategic goal of eradicating Hamas as a military threat remains firmly in place.
This stance creates a constant, underlying tension that threatens the entire peace process. Israel has signaled that it will not hesitate to resume its military offensive if it feels its core demands, particularly the disarmament of Hamas, are not being addressed in subsequent negotiations. This gives Israel de facto veto power over the continuation of the calm.
This position is supported by a significant portion of the Israeli public and political establishment, who believe that leaving Hamas even partially intact would be an unacceptable risk. It also aligns with the analysis of security experts who doubt Hamas will ever disarm voluntarily.
As Trump and other leaders push for a permanent political solution, they must contend with this Israeli reality. The peace they are trying to build is subject to Netanyahu’s sword, a constant reminder that the return to war is a distinct possibility if Israel’s fundamental security red lines are crossed.
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