New Monitoring Mechanism Launched in Gaza as US Gives Netanyahu Political Space Amid Election

Nikolay Mladenov, head of the UN Peace Council for Gaza, addressed the situation in the Gaza Strip on Wednesday following recent developments in the roadmap agreement with Hamas. After the Israeli military conducted its first strike in Gaza since a ceasefire under political guidance, Mladenov announced the activation of a new mechanism to monitor violations, stating that every confirmed breach will be addressed. He firmly denied reports of any financial agreement between the Peace Council and Hamas, calling such claims false and emphasizing that Hamas will have no role in Gaza's governance or access to funds, in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2803 and the Trump administration’s Gaza plan.

Mladenov clarified that Peace Council funds are not transferred through Hamas, with all contracts and payments subject to strict verification and donor government audits. The international stabilization force aims to support disarmament and establish civilian governance excluding Hamas. Meanwhile, US officials expressed disappointment over Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s rejection of the 15-point roadmap but welcomed Israel’s halt of targeted killings and adherence to the ceasefire, with military actions now requiring Chief of Staff approval. The US is reportedly willing to give Netanyahu some leeway to frame the plan amid Israel’s complex political climate ahead of elections.

Negotiations mediated by the US, Turkey, Qatar, and Egypt envision Hamas relinquishing weapons and governance to a technocratic committee, with Israel withdrawing troops. However, Hamas conditions disarmament on Israeli withdrawal, while Israel demands Hamas disarm first, creating a stalemate. Despite public rejection, Netanyahu’s government is seen as maintaining the ceasefire and abiding by the roadmap’s terms on the ground. Former US Ambassador Dan Shapiro noted Netanyahu’s priority is winning elections, suggesting he may delay formal acceptance while allowing some progress.

Mladenov emphasized that Israel need not rely on trust or irreversible steps before verified actions occur on the ground. The goal remains full disarmament and preventing Gaza from posing threats like those on October 7. Alternatives include Hamas rebuilding militarily or Israel reasserting control over Gaza at high human and economic costs. The Peace Council proposes a third option: full disarmament, civilian governance, international security presence under US command, and robust monitoring mechanisms. While challenges remain significant, Mladenov stressed no need to invent new obstacles.