First step in a long road to peace in Gaza – Firstpost

The latest development in global politics with the ceasefire and hostage release deal between Israel and Hamas marks a crucial juncture in the long-standing conflict that has left a trail of devastation and human suffering. Announced to commence on January 19, 2025, this agreement, brokered with the involvement of the United States, Qatar, and Egypt, offers a moment of respite to families torn apart by the violence since October 7, 2024, and provides much-needed relief to Palestinian civilians enduring dehumanisation and prolonged hardship.

The deal encompasses several critical components to alleviate immediate suffering and build a foundation for further negotiations. The cessation of hostilities is the initial step, set to begin the first phase of the agreement expected to last six weeks. This pause in violence is essential to provide humanitarian relief and create a conducive environment for dialogue. It also facilitates the release of hostages held by Hamas.

An initial group of 33 hostages, including women, children, the elderly, and the ill, is set to be released. Among them is Kfir Bibas, a two-year-old who was taken captive along with his family. In exchange, Israel is expected to release many Hamas prisoners, signifying a mutual concession aimed at fostering trust between the parties.

Furthermore, the agreement facilitates significant humanitarian aid to Gaza. This provision aims to address the dire living conditions faced by Palestinian civilians, ensuring that essential supplies such as food, medicine, and water are delivered to those in need. It recognises the severe humanitarian crisis and the urgent need to alleviate suffering.

This agreement, while a beacon of hope, also underscores the region’s complex and fragile nature of peace. The conflict, which has resulted in tens of thousands of Palestinian deaths, especially children, and significant destruction, demands more than temporary accords; it requires sustained diplomatic effort and genuine commitment from both parties and the international community to pave the way for a lasting resolution, which is a two-state solution.

Beyond Immediate Relief: The Roadblocks to Peace

While the ceasefire offers a necessary pause in violence, it does little to resolve the underlying causes of the conflict. Historical grievances, territorial disputes, and profound mistrust between Israel and Hamas are deeply rooted, presenting formidable challenges to lasting peace. Temporary agreements have often failed to address these core issues, leading to recurring cycles of violence.

The socio-economic impact of the conflict further complicates peace efforts. Gaza’s infrastructure lies in ruins, hampering economic development and exacerbating poverty. In Israel, particularly in areas near conflict zones, economic stability has also been shaken. Sustainable peace requires comprehensive economic strategies that rebuild infrastructure, create jobs, and foster economic cooperation. Without such initiatives, the despair that fuels extremism will persist, threatening the fragile peace.

The psychological toll on the civilian population is another pressing concern. For generations, both Israelis and Palestinians have lived under the shadow of conflict, fostering a culture of fear and hatred. Breaking this cycle requires not just political and economic interventions but also efforts to heal the deep-seated emotional scars. Education systems on both sides need reforms that promote peace, tolerance, and understanding. Initiatives that bring together youths from both communities can play a pivotal role in fostering a new generation that values coexistence over conflict.

The Crucial Role of the International Community

The international community’s reaction to the ceasefire has been one of cautious optimism. US President Joe Biden and Israel’s President Isaac Herzog have highlighted the agreement’s diplomatic importance. However, its success depends heavily on the continued engagement and cooperation of global actors. Diplomatic pressure and support for peace initiatives must remain steadfast to prevent the fragile ceasefire from collapsing.

The ceasefire deal comes amid significant global developments, including Donald Trump’s recent triumph in the U.S. presidential election. Trump’s warnings and policy positions on international conflicts and his administration’s approach to Middle East diplomacy undoubtedly influence the dynamics of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire.

Trump’s return to power signals potential shifts in US foreign policy, which could impact the peace process in the region. His administration’s past policies have shown a preference for strong, unilateral actions rather than multilateral diplomatic efforts. This approach may pose challenges to the fragile peace established by the current ceasefire agreement.

Humanitarian aid, while essential, must be part of a broader effort to rebuild trust and promote mutual understanding. This involves ensuring that governance structures in both Israel and Palestine are transparent, accountable, and uphold civil liberties. The international community must advocate for these principles, supporting efforts that foster a culture of peace and respect for human rights.

Moreover, international mediators must remain impartial and consistent in their approach, avoiding the pitfalls of previous peace processes that were often perceived as biased or insufficiently inclusive. The role of regional powers like Egypt and Qatar is also crucial, as their geographic and political proximity grants them unique influence and insights. Collaborative efforts that harness the strengths of both global and regional actors are likely to be more effective in fostering a wave of sustainable peace.

Towards a Comprehensive Peace Framework

Achieving lasting peace in the Israel-Palestine conflict requires a comprehensive approach that goes beyond immediate humanitarian relief. Addressing the root causes of the conflict—such as economic disparities, political disenfranchisement, and human rights violations—is crucial. Only through tackling these issues can a durable peace be established.

If followed by robust social and economic initiatives, the fragile ceasefire can serve as a foundation for more substantial diplomatic engagements. The international community must remain committed to this path, ensuring that efforts to foster peace are sustained and inclusive. In doing so, they can help pave the way for a future where Israelis and Palestinians coexist in mutual respect and shared prosperity, turning this temporary truce into a stepping stone towards enduring peace.

Economic initiatives should focus on the reconstruction of Gaza’s infrastructure, investment in public services, and the creation of job opportunities. Special attention must be given to the development of industries that can thrive in both Israel and Palestine, encouraging economic interdependence that makes peace a mutually beneficial goal.

Furthermore, the political landscape must evolve to accommodate the aspirations of both peoples. This includes supporting democratic institutions, ensuring fair representation, and upholding the rule of law. Mechanisms for conflict resolution should be institutionalised, providing channels for grievances to be addressed without resorting to violence.

Lastly, the role of civil society cannot be understated. Grassroots movements, non-governmental organisations, and community leaders play a vital role in peacebuilding efforts. By fostering dialogue, promoting human rights, and advocating for social justice, these groups can build bridges where governments and official channels fall short. A comprehensive peace framework must therefore integrate the efforts of all societal levels, ensuring that the peace process is holistic and resilient.

In essence, while the current ceasefire in the Israel-Palestine conflict is a necessary and welcome respite, it is only a stepping stone towards a larger, more challenging journey. The path to lasting peace requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses immediate needs while laying the groundwork for long-term solutions. The international community, regional actors, and civil societies must work in concert to transform this fragile ceasefire into a durable peace, ensuring a future where both Israelis and Palestinians can live in security, dignity, and mutual respect.

Amal Chandra is an author, political analyst and columnist. Prashanto Bagchi is an International Relations scholar at the JNU, New Delhi. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the authors. They do not necessarily reflect Firstpost’s views.