A US-backed board tasked with overseeing the Gaza ceasefire has been accused of bias, with critics warning that its focus on blaming Hamas could lead to a resumption of hostilities. The board's high representative, Nickolay Mladenov, told the UN Security Council that Hamas was the 'principal obstacle' to the ceasefire due to its refusal to disarm and relinquish control. However, analysts argue that the board has ignored Israel's repeated violations of the truce.
Since the ceasefire was declared in October, Israeli forces have expanded their control from 53% to at least 60% of Gaza, conducted airstrikes, and shot at Palestinians near the shifting frontline. More than 850 Palestinians have been killed. Israel has also failed to meet its obligation to allow 600 aid trucks per day and has blocked essential supplies such as water pipes and heavy machinery.
Critics say Mladenov's report, which only indirectly criticises Israel by referencing 'all parties', could legitimise a decision by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to return to war. Muhammad Shehada of the European Council on Foreign Relations noted that Israel has not fulfilled its phase one obligations, questioning why it would honour phase two once Hamas disarms.
Hamas rejected the accusations, with spokesperson Hazem Qassem stating the report 'reflects continued adoption of the Israeli position'. Meanwhile, Israeli analyst Gershon Baskin, who has been involved in past negotiations, said Hamas had indicated willingness to begin disarmament, provided Israel also meets its commitments. The board's roadmap proposes a phased disarmament overseen by a verification committee, but critics argue it places disproportionate blame on Hamas.
