The war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza has ended following mediation by US President Donald Trump, with both sides agreeing to a ceasefire. Israeli forces have withdrawn from the Gaza Strip, after which President Trump has stepped up efforts to restore stability in the region. As part of these efforts, he proposed the formation of a Gaza Board of Peace, involving multiple countries, aimed at overseeing reconstruction and facilitating the establishment of a new governing framework. At the same time, Trump issued a warning to Hamas, stating that the group would face destruction if it failed to surrender its weapons. Speaking at the Gaza Peace Forum in Davos, Switzerland, he reiterated this stance.
Following the Israeli military withdrawal, reports indicate that Hamas is regaining influence across Gaza. During Israel’s presence, Hamas fighters had largely gone underground, with the Israel Defense Forces targeting operatives in hiding. However, after the end of the conflict and the withdrawal of Israeli troops, a security vacuum has emerged. Intelligence and media reports suggest that Hamas has begun reasserting control in several areas, including parts of Gaza City, Jabalia, Nuseirat, Al-Bureij, Beit Lahia, and Khan Younis.
Under the ceasefire framework, Hamas was expected to disarm, but the group has so far refused to hand over its weapons. Hamas has stated that while it agreed to halt fighting, it never committed to disarmament. Despite months of conflict, the organization has not been fully dismantled and continues to operate as a structured system rather than a fragmented group. Its fighters, commanders, and operational networks remain active. According to reports, nearly 2,000 Hamas militants are still operational in Gaza.
Hamas is also believed to retain significant weapons stockpiles, many of which were concealed in tunnels and underground storage facilities. Although Israeli operations destroyed several covert sites, the group’s entire infrastructure was not eliminated. Soon after the ceasefire came into effect, Hamas reportedly regrouped its forces and brought weapons back into circulation. The group is said to maintain a police-like administrative structure and has deployed personnel across Gaza to enforce control, suppress dissent, and manage security-related functions. Armed Hamas operatives are now reportedly visible in areas vacated by Israeli forces.
Against this backdrop, questions are being raised about the feasibility of President Trump’s Gaza Board of Peace. Analysts note that without Hamas’ participation, implementing reconstruction, governance, and humanitarian operations would be extremely challenging. While Trump has sought to involve several countries in the initiative, experts warn that if Hamas rejects the plan, international partners may gradually disengage. Such a scenario could further consolidate Hamas’ position on the ground and limit the effectiveness of international efforts to shape Gaza’s post-war future.