A high-level US delegation visited Israel to reinforce a truce this week. The visit comes as both sides, Hamas and Israel, face difficult next steps. These include the return of hostages and humanitarian aid access. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is also set to rule on Israel’s aid obligations.
US Vice-President JD Vance expressed “great optimism” about the truce. He spoke at a press conference in Jerusalem on Tuesday. Vance stated the process was “in a very good place”.
He acknowledged that there would be difficult moments. However, he downplayed recent clashes, calling them part of the process. The core of the US-brokered ceasefire is a 20-point peace plan requiring significant concessions from both Hamas and Israel.
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Phase one of the deal has seen some success. Hamas has returned 15 of 28 deceased Israeli hostages, while Israel has released over 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and returned the remains of 15 Palestinians. However, Hamas says finding the remaining Israeli bodies is difficult due to the widespread destruction in Gaza. Vance urged for patience, noting some hostages are buried under rubble.
A key point of contention is the disarmament of Hamas. Vance confirmed the US has not set a deadline for this. He warned, however, that “very bad things” would happen if Hamas did not comply. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has maintained that any violation would allow Israel to resume the war. This delicate truce also involves establishing an international stabilisation force. Details on its formation remain vague.
Humanitarian aid remains a critical issue. The UN and other aid groups are trying to scale up operations. The World Food Programme has sent over 530 trucks into Gaza, but this is still far below pre-war levels. French President Emmanuel Macron called for the urgent reopening of all aid routes.
Meanwhile, the ICJ is due to deliver an advisory opinion on Israel’s obligations to facilitate aid and its blockade of Gaza. Hamas has accused Israel of violating the ceasefire by keeping the crucial Rafah crossing closed.
Image: JD Vance speaks at a press conference, May 13, 2024, in New York. (AP Photo/Stefan Jeremiah)
