The Price of Peace: What is the True Cost of a Ceasefire in the Middle East?

The recent ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel has brought a glimmer of hope to the oppressed Palestinians of Gaza. The agreement, facilitated by Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, includes a 6-7 week ceasefire, prisoner exchanges, and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from key areas. However, concerns linger about Israel's commitment to the agreement, particularly under Netanyahu's leadership.

Historically, Israel has been accused of violating ceasefire agreements, as seen in the 2024 Israel-Lebanon ceasefire agreement, where Israel allegedly violated the ceasefire 52 times, killing at least 15 people ¹. Netanyahu's past statements also raise concerns, as he has emphasized the importance of maintaining Israel's military strength and flexibility.

The international community's oversight, including Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, will be crucial in ensuring Israel's compliance. Nevertheless, the success of the agreement hinges on Netanyahu's willingness to abide by its terms. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has been devastating. Since October 7, 2023, the conflict has resulted in approximately 50,000 Palestinian martyrs, 110,000 injured, and over 1 million missing. Nearly 1.7 million people have been displaced, and 70 debris piles litter Gaza, including homes, hospitals, and UN offices.

In response, resistance groups have targeted Zionist soldiers and Israeli citizens, resulting in significant casualties. The conflict has disrupted basic necessities like food, fuel, and medical supplies, exacerbating poverty, backwardness, and epidemics in Gaza. The brutality of Israel's actions has destroyed generations of Palestinians and regional peace. Prominent leaders, including Hassan Nasrallah and Ismail Haniyeh, have made ultimate sacrifices for their cause.

The Hamas central leader, Khalil al-Hayya, credits the ceasefire to Palestinian steadfastness and resistance. Meanwhile, Yemeni Houthis have saluted resistance groups on the ceasefire.The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) must be strengthened to prevent Zionist atrocities through international diplomacy. Gaza's current situation is dire, with people forced to live in open camps despite severe cold, resulting in children losing their lives. Restoring Gaza's infrastructure requires a complete ceasefire, which may take decades. Ensuring the ceasefire agreement is crucial for Middle East peace and security.

The international community, particularly the Muslim Ummah, is deeply concerned about the Middle East's situation. Prolonged tension threatens global peace. The Gaza war has directly affected Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and Iran. A potential civil war in the Middle East could be a precursor to a global conflict. The responsibility of the United States, as a superpower, increases in pressuring Israel to implement the ceasefire agreement in the Middle East. The US holds significant influence over Israel and is always ready to support it, which aligns with its interests.

The Netanyahu government's arbitrary actions and war in the Middle East resemble a chessboard, where pieces are constantly being moved. The ceasefire was necessary due to the Zionist state's brutal actions in Gaza, which have left humanity mourning its helplessness. Observers of the global scenario note that while the US is a superpower, Israel also exerts significant control over the US government. Palestine is a complex issue, sacred to the Muslim Ummah, as it is the Qiblah of Muslims. This shared heritage explains why Muslims worldwide empathize with their Palestinian brothers and sisters.

For over a century, Palestinians have struggled for their land and rights, but Israel's military power and international support have turned Gaza into a graveyard. Despite Gaza being 70% destroyed and Hamas and Hezbollah being severely weakened, the Palestinian people continue to resist. They have not compromised their independence and freedom, and history shows that victory is destined for those who remain steadfast. Soon, the land will be freed from the domination of the Zionist state.