What We Know About the Israel-Hamas Cease-Fire Agreement

After 11 days of intense fighting, Israel and Hamas have agreed to a cease-fire, bringing an end to the deadliest violence the region has seen in years. The conflict, which began on May 10th, resulted in the deaths of over 240 Palestinians in Gaza, including 66 children, and 12 Israelis. The cease-fire was brokered by Egypt and comes after intense diplomatic efforts from the United States, the United Nations, and other international partners.

The terms of the cease-fire agreement are as follows:

1. Immediate halt to hostilities: Both sides have agreed to an immediate cessation of hostilities, including rocket attacks from Hamas and airstrikes from Israel.

2. Palestinian rights in Jerusalem: The agreement includes provisions for addressing the underlying issues that sparked the conflict, including the eviction of Palestinian families from their homes in East Jerusalem and the violence at the Al-Aqsa Mosque.

3. Humanitarian aid to Gaza: The cease-fire includes provisions for delivering much-needed humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza, who have been living under a blockade for years and now face a dire humanitarian crisis.

4. Rebuilding Gaza: The agreement includes plans for rebuilding the infrastructure in Gaza that has been destroyed during the conflict, including homes, schools, hospitals, and other vital services.

While the cease-fire is a welcome development, it is important to remember that this is not a lasting solution to the underlying issues that have plagued the region for decades. The root causes of the conflict, including the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories, the blockade of Gaza, and the lack of a viable peace process, must be addressed in order to achieve a lasting peace.

Both Israel and Hamas have claimed victory in the conflict, but the reality is that there are no winners in this devastating conflict. The only way to prevent future violence and bloodshed is through a comprehensive and inclusive peace process that addresses the legitimate rights and aspirations of both Israelis and Palestinians.

As the world celebrates the cease-fire and the end of the violence, it is crucial that the international community remains engaged in efforts to address the root causes of the conflict and work towards a just and lasting peace for all the people of the region.