After 15 months of brutal conflict, Israel and Hamas have reached a ceasefire agreement. The world has breathed a sigh of relief. Although several questions remain about the understanding reached by the two sides at the prodding of mediators such as the United States, Egypt and Qatar, the peace deal has been welcomed across the world. What is known so far is that the first phase of the truce will last six weeks and will involve the exchange of hostages taken by Hamas for prisoners held by Israeli authorities. The deal is expected to lead to the release of some 100 Israelis taken hostage by Hamas during the brazen terrorist attacks in October 2023.
Already the people of Gaza have paid too high a cost in this conflict, with the overall death toll surpassing 50,000, including 46,000 Palestinians, many of them children, women, and elderly. Israel’s anger in the aftermath of the 7 October terror attacks was understandable, but its flagrant violation of international law and human rights in its relentless campaign in Gaza has won it few friends. Israel has committed genocide in Gaza. When the war ends, the international community should come together and rebuild Gaza. Israel also should be held accountable for the war crimes committed in Gaza. The people of Palestine deserve justice for the crimes committed by Israel in Gaza. For now, let’s hope that the ceasefire agreement is properly implemented and the process of healing starts.