Explainer

After Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Deal, What Now for Gaza?

Palestinians return to inspect damage to buildings following Israeli shelling in the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza, on Nov. 29.Photographer: Ahmad Salem/Bloomberg

Provide news feedback or report an error

Confidential tip?

Send a tip to our reporters

Site feedback:

Take our Survey

By Fares Alghoul, Fadwa Hodali, and Dan Williams

January 17, 2025 at 4:25 AM EST

After 15 months of war, Israel and Hamas have announced a pause in hostilities. In the best case, in which the six-week ceasefire becomes open-ended, it will bring a host of new challenges.

Among the unanswered questions: How will Gaza rebuild and who will pay for it? Who will run the territory, and will they enjoy the support of its 2 million population?