Monday marked a significant day for Canadians with ties to Israel and Gaza as a peace agreement was reached concurrently with the release of Israeli captives and Palestinian detainees. While there was a sense of hope and celebration, experts expressed doubts about the long-term sustainability of peace in the region.
Maureen Leshem from Toronto, whose cousin Romi Gonen was held captive by Hamas for 15 months, shared her feelings of relief and gratitude, calling the peace deal a triumph for humanity. Louay Alghoul from Winnipeg, who lost 139 family members in Gaza due to Israeli attacks, had mixed emotions, acknowledging the cessation of bombings but remaining cautious about the prospects for enduring peace.
The release of hostages and prisoners was a positive step, allowing Alghoul’s family members in Gaza to receive essential supplies. U.S. President Donald Trump played a significant role in finalizing the peace deal, signing the agreement at the Knesset in Israel before attending a global summit in Egypt.
Prime Minister Mark Carney, among other world leaders, hailed the summit as a historic moment that offers hope for both Palestinians and Israelis. However, concerns were raised by critics like Nader Hashemi, emphasizing the necessity of Palestinian involvement in peace negotiations for sustained peace.
Acknowledging the complexities of the conflict, Hashemi criticized the current deal as primarily an Israeli initiative, lacking long-term solutions and disregarding Palestinian rights to statehood. The international community’s call for a two-state solution remains a point of contention, with Netanyahu’s government opposing it.
With uncertainties looming over the implementation and sustainability of the peace plan, experts like Nomi Bar-Yaacov stress the importance of concrete actions and mechanisms for progress. Michael Lynk highlighted the need for adherence to international law and UN resolutions in addressing the conflict.
As challenges persist in rebuilding Gaza and ensuring lasting peace, the road ahead remains uncertain, with questions lingering about the plan’s viability and effectiveness in bringing enduring stability to the region.
