Gaza Ceasefire Deal: BBC Correspondents Answer Questions on Next Steps

Fragile Ceasefire and Hostage Returns

• ⚠️ The current situation in Gaza is described as very fragile, with initial signs being discouraging.
• 💔 The return of all deceased Israeli hostages is a critical test for the ceasefire deal, with only four bodies returned so far.
• ❓ Hamas may be withholding additional bodies as leverage for future negotiations, a suspicion held by the Israeli government.
• 🤝 A task force involving Qatar, the US, Turkey, and the International Red Cross has been established to aid in finding missing bodies.

On-the-Ground Situation in Gaza

• 🕊️ While some celebrate the hostage release, 40-45 Palestinian bodies were returned, posing identification challenges due to a lack of DNA testing facilities.
• ⚔️ Hamas is reportedly clashing with criminal elements and alleged collaborators in eastern Gaza City, raising concerns about internal conflict reminiscent of 2007.
• 🚧 Israel's decision to halt the opening of the Rafah crossing for general passage, allowing only for the sick and injured, has caused worry among Gazans that the ceasefire could collapse.

Disarmament and Governance of Gaza

• 📜 The ceasefire agreement lacks specific details on disarmament, with Hamas stating they would only disarm upon handing weapons to a Palestinian state.
• 🛡️ Hamas has asserted security control in areas Israel withdrew from, primarily against rival clans and gangs, not against Israel.
• 🌍 The plan for an international stabilization force composed of Arab countries and Turkey to work alongside Palestinian police is unclear, as these forces are unlikely to engage in conflict with Hamas.
• 🇺🇸 Donald Trump's engagement is seen as crucial, though his focus on