Monday witnessed a significant moment for Canadians with connections to Israel and Gaza, as a peace agreement was reached alongside the liberation of Israeli captives and Palestinian detainees. Despite the jubilant atmosphere, some analysts expressed doubts about the long-term efficacy of the accord in fostering sustained peace in the area.
Maureen Leshem from Toronto, whose relative Romi Gonen was held captive by Hamas for over a year, described feeling a sense of gratitude and immense relief following the peace pact, hailing it as a triumph for humanity. Meanwhile, Louay Alghoul from Winnipeg, who suffered losses due to Israeli actions in Gaza, expressed mixed emotions, cautiously optimistic about the ceasefire but unsure about its lasting impact.
U.S. President Donald Trump, after signing the agreement at the Knesset in Israel and subsequently at Sharm el-Sheikh in Egypt, emphasized his 20-point peace initiative as a pathway towards eternal peace in the Middle East. Prime Minister Mark Carney, along with leaders from numerous nations, hailed the summit as a historic milestone ushering in hope for both Palestinians and Israelis.
However, skepticism loomed over the peace plan’s effectiveness, especially with concerns raised by Nader Hashemi, a Middle East politics expert, regarding the absence of Palestinian involvement in the negotiation process. Hashemi criticized the portrayal of the deal as a blueprint for enduring regional peace, arguing that past U.S. administrations’ similar claims had ultimately led to heightened conflict.
The international community’s advocacy for a two-state solution, in contrast to Netanyahu’s stance, underscored the persistent challenges in achieving lasting peace in the region. Hashemi highlighted the urgent need for sustainable reconstruction efforts in Gaza, where years of conflict have left a devastating impact on the population.
Looking ahead, experts like Nomi Bar-Yaacov stressed the importance of a robust implementation strategy for the peace plan, including the establishment of a stabilization force in Gaza. Michael Lynk, a legal scholar, urged a stronger reliance on international law and UN resolutions to address the complex issues in Israel and the Palestinian territories.
As uncertainties persist about the agreement’s viability, the focus remains on the practical steps needed to translate the peace deal into tangible outcomes that ensure stability and security for the affected populations.
