The announcement of a ceasefire in Gaza after more than two years of relentless bloodshed has brought a sigh of relief across much of the world. With the guns falling silent, Israel has begun withdrawing troops from parts of Gaza, and thousands of Palestinians have started their long march back to shattered homes. For the families of Israel’s remaining hostages, there is now a glimmer of hope that the truce — brokered by U.S. President Donald Trump — may hold.
According to the Israeli military, its forces ceased fire at noon on Friday in preparation for the ceasefire agreement and the release of hostages. The Pentagon confirmed Israel had completed the first phase of a troop pullback, although Israeli forces continue to control more than half of Palestinian territory. Under the deal, Hamas is expected to release the remaining 47 hostages, while Israel has published a list of 250 Palestinian prisoners and pledged to free 1,700 Gazans detained since the conflict reignited on October 7, 2023.
For ordinary Palestinians, the ceasefire offers a fragile chance to escape what the United Nations has described as famine-like conditions. Long columns of displaced families have begun to return north from Khan Yunis to the ruins of Gaza City, weary but hopeful. Yet, Israeli authorities have warned some areas remain off-limits while their forces “adjust operational positions.”
Despite international celebrations and congratulatory messages from world leaders, the ceasefire faces formidable obstacles. Israel’s insistence on Hamas disarmament and the controversial proposal for a transitional authority for Gaza, spearheaded by Trump, remain contentious. Senior Hamas figures have already rejected such an authority, viewing it as an attempt to curtailPalestinian rights and resistance.
The shadow of broken promises also looms large. Palestinians recall previous ceasefires repeatedly violated by Israel, eroding trust and fuelling fears that history may repeat itself. Hamas leaders have claimed they received guarantees from Trump regarding implementation of the first phase, but skepticism persists.
Responsibility now falls squarely on the shoulders of the United States, Arab and Muslim nations, and the European Union to ensure that Israel abides by its commitments. Without firm international oversight, the ceasefire risks becoming yet another hollow truce that collapses under the weight of mistrust and hostility.
What Gaza needs is not another temporary pause in violence, but a comprehensive and realistic framework that addresses the root causes of the conflict — occupation, displacement, and denial of Palestinian rights. Unless these issues are confronted, the people of Gaza will continue to live under the constant threat of war, and peace will remain an elusive dream.
The guns may be silent for now, but the struggle for justice is far from over.
