The fragile ceasefire in Gaza has now lasted five weeks, but it is not functioning as most would expect. Shortly after the ceasefire began on October 10, U.S. President Donald Trump declared the war over. However, both Israel and Hamas have accused each other of violating the terms of the truce, with Palestinians suffering the most from these alleged breaches. According to Gaza's health authorities, hundreds of Palestinians have died, and much of the territory remains under Israeli military control. Humanitarian organizations report that aid is still insufficient, and discussions for a lasting peace have stalled.

Since the ceasefire took effect, the number of Israeli airstrikes in Gaza has significantly decreased, but they have not ceased entirely. Palestinian health authorities reported that 260 people have been killed and 632 injured since the ceasefire began. Hamas claims that over 90% of those casualties are civilians, including many women, children, and the elderly. Israel contends that its attacks are a response to Hamas's violations, including incursions into Israeli-controlled areas and attacks on Israeli soldiers.

Three Israeli soldiers have reportedly died since the ceasefire started, with one killed near Rafah and two in another incident. Israel attributed these deaths to Hamas and responded with extensive airstrikes on October 29, resulting in 109 Palestinian deaths, marking the deadliest day since the ceasefire began. Hamas distanced itself from the incidents, stating that it had not been in contact with fighters in that area for months.

Hamas has requested safe passage for around 200 militants hiding in tunnels near Rafah, asking Israel to allow them to cross the "Yellow Line" into other parts of Gaza. This demand has sparked political debate in Israel, with right-wing officials urging Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to refuse the request and treat the fighters as terrorists. Netanyahu's spokesperson indicated that any decision would involve discussions with the United States, but Netanyahu appeared surprised when criticized for this stance in the Knesset.

U.S. officials, including Jared Kushner, have been actively involved in discussions regarding the ceasefire. Kushner, who played a key role in brokering the deal, visited Israel this week to continue talks with Israeli leaders and Hamas. The U.S. has established a command center near the Gaza border to monitor the ceasefire, with contributions from other countries, including Australia.

The ceasefire also initiated a 72-hour window for the return of Israeli hostages and the release of Palestinians from Israeli jails. So far, 20 living Israeli hostages have been freed, along with nearly 2,000 Palestinians. However, the remains of deceased Israeli captives have been slowly returned, with three of the 28 deceased hostages still unaccounted for. Israel has accused Hamas of delaying the repatriation, while Hamas claims the devastation in Gaza complicates recovery efforts.

Aid deliveries to Gaza have resumed, but humanitarian organizations argue that the volume is insufficient. Hamas stated that 600 trucks of food and fuel should be entering daily, but fewer than 200 have typically crossed the border. The Rafah crossing with Egypt remains closed, while the Zikim crossing in northern Gaza has reopened. UNICEF reported that essential supplies, including refrigerators and syringes for vaccinations, are being blocked by Israeli authorities, who claim they are exercising caution.

As the ceasefire continues, many Palestinians have returned to areas previously under heavy bombardment, but significant destruction remains. Large parts of Gaza have been leveled, leaving many living in tent camps. Israel maintains control over more than half of the strip, restricting Palestinian movement across the "Yellow Line." Hamas has accused Israel of encroaching on its territory by placing concrete blocks to mark its control, a claim Israel denies.

The path to lasting peace in Gaza remains uncertain. Key elements of the Trump peace plan are still unattainable, particularly regarding the rebuilding of Gaza and the disarmament of Hamas. The international stabilizing force intended to enhance security in Gaza has yet to be established, with Israel asserting it will determine which countries participate. The situation remains complex as negotiations continue.