A feeling of relief is sweeping through the Middle East and beyond as reports suggest a ceasefire agreement in Gaza is on the horizon. Negotiators have emphasized that the recent agreement, struck in the early hours in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, is merely the first step towards a more comprehensive deal aimed at permanently ending the conflict. However, the initial phase of the agreement is precarious, with the risk of collapse looming should either Israel or Hamas fail to uphold perceived commitments.
In Gaza, where residents have faced immense hardship and violence, and in Israel, where families anxiously await the return of their loved ones held captive, emotions are mixed with hope and apprehension. Mahmoud Abdallah, a 27-year-old in Deir al-Balah, Gaza, expressed his cautious optimism, acknowledging the pain of missing loved ones during these uncertain times. Similarly, Yehuda Cohen, whose son Nimrod was taken captive by Hamas in 2023, described his family’s state as being in limbo, eagerly awaiting the reunion with their son.
The initial phase of the agreement stipulates the release of all living Israeli hostages within 72 hours of the ceasefire commencement, with additional time needed for the release of the bodies of 28 individuals. Furthermore, the agreement includes the release of 250 Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails and 1,700 Gazans detained by Israel during the conflict. The agreement also paves the way for essential aid to flow back into Gaza.
While U.S. President Donald Trump has hailed the agreement as a step towards “eternal peace,” significant details remain unresolved. Key issues include the extent of Israeli troop withdrawal from Gaza, Hamas’ disarmament, the future governance of Gaza, and the role of international actors in the peace process. The agreement envisions a “Board of Peace” led by Trump, with potential involvement from former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, to oversee the peace process.
Critics point to the unresolved final status issues, such as Palestinian statehood and the fate of Palestinian refugees, as persistent challenges that must be addressed for lasting peace. The international community’s sustained engagement, especially from the U.S. and key Middle Eastern nations, will be crucial in navigating these complex issues and ensuring progress towards a lasting resolution.
Despite the positive aspects of the agreement, concerns persist about its long-term implications. Palestinian leaders acknowledge the immediate relief the agreement may bring but stress the need for further negotiations to address remaining contentious issues. The path to a comprehensive peace agreement remains uncertain, underscoring the importance of continued international involvement to prevent the stalling of talks and a return to conflict.