Israel-Hamas war: 3 years on, Gaza peace remains elusive
Analysts say differences over disarmament, Israeli withdrawal and Palestinian statehood are among the factors holding back progress.
Three years after Hamas' 2023 attacks, the Gaza conflict entered a ceasefire in 2025, but lasting peace remains elusive. A US-led 20-point peace plan aimed to achieve disarmament, Israeli withdrawal, and a Palestinian state, but progress has stalled. Analysts say differences over disarmament, Israeli withdrawal, and Palestinian statehood are the main obstacles.
Hamas remains armed and influences Gaza through networks and distribution of aid, while the West Bank-based Palestinian Authority is ready to resume governing role. Israel controls much of the Strip and retains military capability. The disarmament of Hamas is contentious, with experts questioning whether it would relinquish its militant identity.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu opposes a Palestinian state, viewing it as a political strategy for the upcoming Oct 27 election. US President Trump's role in pressing for further progress is limited, despite his role in negotiating the initial ceasefire. Analysts say the path to peace hinges on significant pressure on both sides, especially Israel, but find no clear indication of such pressure.
Written by urgent.news from Channel News Asia's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.