After two years of relentless war, staggering loss, and global outrage, a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas has taken effect. Brokered by U.S. President Donald Trump and shaped through negotiations in Egypt, Qatar, and the UN, this deal marks the first phase of a 20-point framework aimed at halting violence in Gaza and initiating resolution.

The immediate terms: cessation of hostilities, release of Israeli hostages, freeing of nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners, and partial withdrawal of Israeli troops to a designated “yellow line.” Humanitarian aid is expected to surge into Gaza, where famine and devastation have left neighborhoods unrecognizable.

But beneath this diplomatic breakthrough lies unresolved tension and fragile trust. The deal’s success—or failure—hinges on several factors:

What Could Make the Deal Succeed

• Mutual Exhaustion: Both sides are battered. Israel faces growing isolation; Hamas faces pressure from allies and a devastated population. This weariness may create rare conditions for compromise.
• Hostage and Prisoner Exchange: A powerful symbolic and political gesture. If executed smoothly, it could build momentum for future phases.
• International Oversight and Aid: Arab states, European partners, and the U.S. could stabilize the situation and prevent relapse.
• Regional Diplomacy: Egypt, Qatar, and Italy have signaled support for reconstruction and peacekeeping. Their engagement could help mediate disputes.

What Could Make the Deal Fail

• Disarmament Disputes: Israel demands Hamas disarm; Hamas says it will only surrender weapons to a future Palestinian state. This core disagreement could derail the process.
• Netanyahu’s Calculations: He has a history of undermining ceasefires under pressure. Political shifts or provocations could collapse the deal.
• Lack of Trust and Accountability: Previous ceasefires were broken without consequence. Without enforcement, Netanyahu may obstruct justice by breaking the deal.
• Unclear Governance of Gaza: The deal doesn’t resolve who will govern Gaza post-conflict. Without a legitimate administration, chaos could return.

A Moment of Possibility
This ceasefire is not a resolution—it’s a fragile opening. Whether it becomes a bridge to justice or a brief pause before renewed devastation depends on choices made now. The people of Gaza and Palestine deserve more than gestures. They deserve safety, dignity, and a future free from siege and fear.

As this moment unfolds, we must ask: Will the world hold its breath—or hold its ground?