Dennis Ross on Gaza’s Next Phase: Governance, Disarmament, and a Fragile Opening for Change
JUDJ-Prepared Summary from January 29, 2026 | Israel, Gaza and the Middle East: What Lies Ahead? The views and opinions expressed in this blog are those of the speaker.
In a recent America at a Crossroads discussion, Ambassador Dennis Ross, counselor and distinguished fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy and one of the United States’ most experienced Middle East negotiators, examined what may come next in Gaza following the recovery of the last Israeli hostage remains tied to the first phase of the ceasefire. The conversation focused on the structure of a proposed second phase, the challenge of replacing Hamas’ governing role, and whether a realistic path exists toward reconstruction and a more stable future.
A Transition Point After the Hostage Phase
Ross explained that the recovery of the final body from the original group of hostages removed a major obstacle to moving forward. That development, he said, allows the parties to shift into what is being described as “phase two,” a period that is meant to focus less on hostage exchanges and more on what comes next for Gaza itself.
That next stage is significant because it raises questions far beyond a ceasefire. It centers on whether Gaza can be administered by an alternative Palestinian body, whether humanitarian aid can reach civilians without strengthening Hamas, and whether any political transition can succeed while Hamas remains armed.
A New Administrative Structure for Gaza
A central part of Ross’s discussion was the emergence of a new governing framework. He described a “Board of Peace” that would hold broad authority for Gaza during an interim period, along with a 15-member Palestinian committee composed of Gazans with technical and administrative backgrounds rather than factional loyalties.
According to Ross, this committee is intended to establish legitimacy by operating where most Palestinians in Gaza are located, including areas not currently controlled by Israel. Its immediate purpose is practical: to begin administering services and demonstrating that an alternative to Hamas can function on the ground.
Ross emphasized that credibility will matter. If Palestinians see a governing body that can actually deliver housing, medicine, food, and basic order, that body could begin building both authority and public trust.
Humanitarian Relief as a First Test
Ross noted that one of the earliest priorities will be addressing urgent humanitarian needs, especially after severe weather and the destruction of so much housing. Portable shelter, baby formula, medicine, and household essentials are among the immediate concerns.
Just as important, he argued, is how that aid is delivered. One of the goals of the new arrangement is to prevent Hamas from taxing or controlling incoming goods, which has allowed it to generate revenue and preserve influence. In Ross’s view, getting aid directly to civilians without Hamas interference is not only a humanitarian necessity but also an early test of whether a new authority can prove itself.
The Core Issue: Can Hamas Be Disarmed?
For Ross, the decisive issue is not simply aid delivery or administrative reform. It is whether Hamas can be disarmed in a credible way. He argued that meaningful reconstruction, Israeli withdrawal, and long-term transformation in Gaza all depend on that question.
He suggested that any disarmament process would likely unfold in stages, beginning with heavier weapons and later moving to lighter arms and tunnel infrastructure. But Ross also acknowledged the difficulty: Hamas may try to create the appearance of compliance without surrendering the capabilities that allow it to intimidate Gaza’s population and threaten Israel.
That is why verification, pressure from regional actors, and continued international engagement will be essential.
Hope Without Illusion
Ross stopped short of optimism, but he did describe himself as hopeful. His hope rests on the possibility that serious Palestinians may now have an opening to govern responsibly and begin creating a different future for Gaza.
Still, his message was clear: nothing will happen automatically. Progress depends on sustained pressure, practical delivery, and a real willingness to confront Hamas’ continuing role. Gaza’s next phase, as Ross framed it, is not just about rebuilding what was destroyed. It is about whether a different political reality can finally begin to take shape.
About America at a Crossroads
Since April 2020, America at a Crossroads has produced weekly virtual programs on topics related to the preservation of our democracy, voting rights, freedom of the press, and a wide array of civil rights, including abortion rights, free speech, and free press. America at a Crossroads is a project of Jews United for Democracy & Justice.
