A fragile ceasefire is in place in Gaza, but the conflict is far from over, according to a new analysis. Violence has reduced, but Israeli forces have reportedly killed about 100 Palestinians and wounded hundreds more since the ceasefire began on 10 October. Food aid remains restricted, and the occupation continues in both Gaza and the West Bank. US officials fear Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu may renege on the deal, as he has done in the past.
The analysis argues that sustainable peace requires justice and accountability for war crimes committed since 7 October 2023. It criticises the US peace plan for ignoring any official investigatory process. Without addressing the root cause – the denial of Palestinian sovereignty – the war will likely resume.
Netanyahu and former defence minister Yoav Gallant have been charged by the International Criminal Court with war crimes, including murder and starvation. The late Hamas chief Mohammed Deif was also indicted. The piece calls for Israel to surrender these fugitives or face sanctions, and for expedited ICC investigations into far-right Israeli ministers and senior military chiefs.
An independent commission of inquiry into the 7 October security failures is described as essential, as is the conclusion of Netanyahu's corruption trial. The Israel Defense Forces' actions in Gaza, including deliberate targeting of civilians, are said to have shocked world opinion and require independent investigation. Hamas must also answer for its crimes.
Examples from Sierra Leone, Rwanda, and South Africa show that truth and reconciliation processes can help achieve lasting peace. The analysis concludes that a reckoning is necessary and urgent to end impunity and reduce the risk of resumed warfare.
