Optimism for Gaza Is Based on Shaky Assumptions

Hopes for a lasting peace in Gaza, based on recent ceasefire deals, may be overly optimistic as they fail to account for the powerful influence of Israel's far-right political factions. Key members of Israel's ruling coalition are deeply committed to a "Greater Israel," a vision that includes permanent Israeli control and settlement of Gaza, directly clashing with proposed peace plans. This movement has a proven history of acting as a spoiler, successfully derailing past peace efforts like the Oslo Accords to expand Israeli control over the West Bank. While the recent ceasefire is a setback for them, these groups remain determined to achieve their long-term goals and have continued to consolidate control in the West Bank, signaling their intent to undermine any future peace process.