Why the peace plan for Gaza has stalled

Today, Middle East correspondent for The Economist, Gregg Carlstrom discusses why plans for peace have stalled – and who may end up running Gaza.

Dec 19, 2025, updated Dec 19, 2025

Two months ago, Israel and Hamas agreed to the first phase of a ceasefire plan for Gaza.

But since the truce began on October 10, Gaza authorities say Israel has carried out nearly 800 attacks, killing almost 400 people – including in a recent strike targeting a senior Hamas commander.

Israel, meanwhile, says militants have repeatedly violated the ceasefire, killing at least three Israeli soldiers.

And as Hamas refuses to disarm, Washington seems to have gone silent.

Today, Middle East correspondent for The Economist, Gregg Carlstrom discusses why plans for peace have stalled – and who may end up running Gaza.

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Guest: Middle East correspondent for The Economist, Gregg Carlstrom

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