The Israel-Hamas Ceasefire: A Fragile Pause or a Path Toward Peace?

Is this a real step toward lasting peace, or is it a fragile pause with no hope of resolution in the future?

The long overdue ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, brokered on January 15, 2025, represents a momentous diplomatic development in an ongoing conflict that has exacted a devastating toll, particularly on the people of Gaza. While the ephemeral cessation of hostilities and the release of hostages may offer much-needed relief for the time, the question remains: Is this a real step toward lasting peace, or is it a fragile pause with no hope of resolution in the future?

At its core, this ceasefire deal, which has gained widespread international attention, including from the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar, aims to deliver humanitarian aid, making it easier for civilians to return to their homes, and, alongside that, provide critical medical supplies to Gaza. As per the first phase of the deal, Israeli forces will pull back from the main population centers, while the wounded people of Gaza will have main access to medical facilities. These measures, although vital, are limited in scope and duration. The first phase of the deal will last for 42 days, with clear benchmarks for the release of hostages and Palestinian prisoners. However, the specifics of subsequent phases, including Gaza’s long-term reconstruction, still remain uncertain, leaving room for doubt regarding the long-term sustainability of the ceasefire.

No doubt that this agreement has been hailed by world leaders as a major welcome step on the road to regional stability. President Joe Biden expressed hope that it would lead to the safe return of hostages and the cessation of violence in Gaza. Leaders in Turkey, Egypt, and the EU have also echoed similar sentiments, underscoring the importance of humanitarian aid and improved efforts toward a two-state solution. Yet, in the middle of these optimistic declarations, there lies a fundamental question: Can this major step of ceasefire truly address the underlying political as well as humanitarian issues fueling the entire conflict for so long?

At the heart of the struggle between Israel and Palestine lies a deep political power imbalance, with Israel controlling much of Palestinian life mainly through occupation, territorial restrictions, and blockades. A short-term ceasefire, while crucial for alleviating the immediate type of suffering, does not tackle these existing core issues. Until the root causes of the conflict including the debate over the status of Jerusalem, Palestinians statehood, and the drowning fate of millions of refugees are addressed, any pause in fighting more or less will only delay the inevitable. The cycle of violence, however, will persist, and Gaza will continue to suffer the way it has been suffering for so long.

Besides, the international community’s failure to act decisively over the years has eroded trust in its ability to resolve the conflict. The ceasefire deal, though commendable in its humanitarian aspects, comes far too late for the countless lives lost and the ongoing suffering endured by Palestinians. Global powers, particularly Western nations, therefore, must move beyond statements of support and engage in concrete types of actions based on the tangible terms that can push for long-term solutions. A fair, lasting peace necessitates more than temporary halts in violence; it demands justice, accountability, and the recognition of Palestinian rights.

Above all, a genuine political solution that goes beyond ceasefires and seeks to address the systemic issues at the heart of the conflict. A two-state solution remains the most viable path to peace, but it entails the active involvement of both parties and the firm commitment of the international community. The voices of Palestinians must be included in negotiations, and their rights must be respected. True peace can only be achieved through sustained diplomatic efforts, humanitarian support, and genuine reconciliation and efforts from both sides. The ceasefire may offer timely relief, but it is not a panacea. Without clearly addressing the deeper political and humanitarian challenges that continue to shape this conflict, the cycle of violence will keep on persisting. This moment of pause must be utilized as an opportunity to pave the way for lasting peace.

Hamna Ghias Sheikh
Hamna Ghias Sheikh
Hamna Ghias Sheikh, Research Associate at Pakistan Navy War College Lahore, MPhil International Relations Scholar, actively writes on International Affairs, can be reached at hamna.sheikh009[at]gmail.com, https://pk.linkedin.com/in/hamna-ghias-sheikh-1707a527b