Washington, DC – An official with the Trump Peace Council revealed a plan to establish a pilot humanitarian zone in the Gaza Strip.
This move comes as the US seeks to revitalize its peace initiative for the territory,
despite progress in the second phase of the ceasefire agreement with Hamas.
The official, speaking to Reuters, explained that the council has identified several safe zones.
These zones could accommodate tens of thousands of Gazans.
He also indicated that basic services and humanitarian aid would be expanded for residents willing to relocate there.
However, he did not disclose the specific location of the zone.
A plan to revive the American initiative
This move comes amid the stalled implementation of the plan proposed
by US President Donald Trump to manage the Gaza Strip following the ceasefire agreement.
The plan included increased humanitarian aid, the administration of the Strip by a group of Palestinian technocrats,
and the disarmament of Hamas. It also stipulated the withdrawal of Israeli forces.
However, the initiative has faced obstacles that have prevented its implementation.
The National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, comprised of Palestinian technical experts,
remains outside the Strip and has not yet begun its work.
Deteriorating humanitarian conditions in the sector
The Gaza Strip continues to suffer a dire humanitarian situation following
a two-year war that erupted after the October 7, 2013 offensive.
More than two million Palestinians are living amidst escalating crises related to food, healthcare, and displacement.
Meanwhile, Israel continues its military operations within the Strip.
It has also announced the expansion of its control to encompass approximately 70% of Gaza’s territory,
while airstrikes continue in various areas.
Criticism of aid distribution mechanisms
The aid program run by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation,
with support from the United States and Israel, was suspended following the ceasefire.
This came after it faced criticism from the United Nations and other international organizations
due to the killing of Palestinians while trying to reach aid distribution centers.
Observers believe the new humanitarian zone project represents a US attempt to find
an alternative mechanism to improve the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip.
Meanwhile, political efforts to solidify the ceasefire and complete
its implementation continue to face significant challenges, according to Reuters.
