Monday marked a significant day for Canadians with connections to Israel and Gaza as a peace agreement was reached, accompanied by the release of Israeli captives and Palestinian detainees. Despite the cautious optimism during the celebrations, some 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, described feeling immense gratitude and relief on Monday, considering the peace deal a triumph for humanity. Similarly, Louay Alghoul from Winnipeg, who lost 139 family members in Gaza due to Israeli attacks, expressed mixed emotions, acknowledging the cessation of bombings but remaining skeptical about the potential for enduring peace.
U.S. President Donald Trump, after visiting the Knesset in Israel, proceeded to Sharm el-Sheikh in Egypt for a global summit where the formal conclusion of the two-year conflict in Gaza was officially sealed. Prime Minister Mark Carney, alongside leaders from nearly thirty countries, hailed the summit as a historic moment promising hope for both Palestinians and Israelis.
While the release of hostages and prisoners was viewed as a positive step by some, Alghoul emphasized the need for Palestinian involvement in the peace process to ensure lasting peace. Nader Hashemi, an expert in Middle East politics, criticized the portrayal of the deal as a blueprint for enduring peace, highlighting the absence of Palestinian representation in its formulation.
Hashemi underscored the importance of addressing the root causes of the conflict and criticized the plan for not aligning with international law principles. Many in the international community, including Canada, advocate for a two-state solution, a stance Netanyahu opposes.
Looking ahead, uncertainties remain regarding the implementation and sustainability of the peace plan. Experts like Nomi Bar-Yaacov stress the need for a clear implementation mechanism and a stabilization force in Gaza to oversee the transition effectively. Michael Lynk, a former UN rapporteur, cautioned that the plan must adhere more closely to international law and UN resolutions to ensure a just and lasting resolution.
In conclusion, while the peace deal signifies a step forward, concerns linger over its effectiveness and the challenges of rebuilding trust and stability in the region.