Pyrotic calm

• After 15 months of war, Hamas and Israel have agreed to a ceasefire.

• The ceasefire came into effect on Sunday, easing the daily bombardment and shelling in Gaza.

• The agreement is expected to be implemented in three phases: releasing 33 hostages, releasing about 1,000 Palestinian security prisoners, and announcing a permanent end to the hostilities.

• The first phase involves Hamas releasing 33 hostages, while Israel releases about 1,000 Palestinian security prisoners.

• The second phase involves more exchanges of hostages and prisoners, and both sides must announce a permanent end to the hostilities.

• The third phase involves discussions on who should be in charge of Gaza.

• Israel’s inability to destroy Hamas or secure the release of hostages raises questions about the IDF’s military tactics in Gaza.

• The ceasefire provides relief for Gaza and a platform for further talks.

• Israel, Palestinians, and international mediators should work towards bridging the post-war scenario.

• A pragmatic solution is to form a united administration of all Palestinian factions under the leadership of the Palestinian Authority.

• For this plan to work, Israel should be ready to withdraw all its troops from the Gaza Strip.