Vance Optimistic About Gaza Ceasefire, Warns of Hard Work Ahead

During a visit to Israel, U.S. Vice President JD Vance expressed cautious optimism over the ongoing ceasefire in Gaza, noting that progress has been better than expected since the agreement took effect on October 10, 2023. Despite acknowledging recent flare-ups of violence, Vance emphasized the need to confront significant challenges, including disarming Hamas and rebuilding a region deeply affected by two years of conflict.

Challenges Ahead for Gaza’s Future

Vance’s visit coincided with a new center for civilian and military cooperation in Israel, where he was joined by Steve Witkoff, the Trump administration’s Middle East envoy. Witkoff stated, “we are exceeding where we thought we would be at this time,” reflecting a sense of progress in the peace negotiations. The discussions continued amidst pressing questions regarding the long-term governance of Gaza and the deployment of an international security force.

While Vance tried to downplay the urgency of his visit, he made it clear that the situation remains precarious. He asserted, “I feel confident that we’re going to be in a place where this peace lasts,” but warned that Hamas faces severe consequences if it does not cooperate. “If they don’t cooperate, they will be obliterated,” he stated, underscoring the stakes involved.

Vance is expected to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other officials during his stay, which lasts until Thursday. On the same day, Netanyahu dismissed his national security adviser, Tzachi Hanegbi, amid reports that Hanegbi opposed the continuation of Israel’s military operations in Gaza.

Humanitarian Aid and Hostage Recovery Efforts

In a significant development, Israel’s military confirmed the return of the remains of two more hostages from Gaza, bringing the total number of returned remains to 13 since the ceasefire began. Vance highlighted the urgency of recovering the remaining hostages, stating that “some of these hostages are buried under thousands of pounds of rubble.” He urged for patience, as many families await the return of their loved ones.

As humanitarian aid flows into Gaza, the situation remains complicated. The World Food Program reported that it has delivered over 530 trucks of aid in the past ten days, enough to sustain nearly half a million people for two weeks. This is still far below the pre-war levels of 500 to 600 trucks per day.

Residents have expressed frustration over escalating prices for essential goods. For instance, a 25-kilogram package of flour surged from approximately $12 to over $70 shortly after the ceasefire, although prices have since stabilized to around $30. Local complaints highlighted the exploitation of the current crisis by merchants, prompting Hamas to crack down on price gouging.

The dire economic conditions in Gaza are compounded by the collapse of the financial system. With most banks and ATMs non-operational, residents are forced to rely on cash brokers, often paying exorbitant fees for basic necessities.

In a troubling revelation, Dr. Muneer al-Boursh, a senior health official in Gaza, reported that some bodies returned by Israel showed signs of torture. He called for a United Nations investigation into these claims, which include accounts of deep wounds and signs of binding. The Israel Prisons Service denied any mistreatment of detainees, insisting that legal procedures were followed.

The ongoing conflict has resulted in a staggering death toll, with more than 68,000 Palestinians reported killed, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. This figure has not been independently verified, as Israel disputes these numbers without providing alternative counts.

As the situation continues to unfold, the international community watches closely, with Vance emphasizing the importance of security and humanitarian needs as the immediate priorities. “Let’s focus on security, rebuilding, giving people some food and medicine,” he concluded, highlighting the multifaceted nature of the challenges ahead.