ISLAMABAD / GAZA: A fragile ceasefire in war-torn Gaza has brought a momentary pause to relentless violence, yet uncertainty continues to overshadow hopes for peace. The truce, supported by the United States and regional stakeholders, offers exhausted civilians a rare respite after months of bloodshed.
The pause, however, comes with significant caveats. Israel has made it clear that military operations will be “calibrated” rather than fully halted, raising concerns about the sincerity of its commitment. Reports from Gaza already suggest that bombardments have not ceased entirely, even as leaders frame the deal as a breakthrough.
For Gazans, the toll remains catastrophic — with over 66,000 lives lost, countless families displaced, and civilian infrastructure devastated. Relief agencies caution that temporary halts mean little without concrete steps towards reconstruction, freedom of movement, and long-denied rights.
Adding to the uncertainty, former US President Donald Trump has issued ultimatums urging Hamas to quickly accept the American-backed peace framework. Critics argue such coercion risks undermining genuine negotiations and could further destabilize the fragile balance.
Observers warn that without international enforcement, the truce could dissolve into another cycle of broken promises. For the ceasefire to evolve into lasting peace, guarantors — including Washington, Arab states, and the United Nations — must ensure accountability and press both sides to honor their obligations.
As the world watches cautiously, Gaza’s fragile pause symbolizes both the desperate hope of the oppressed and the persistent doubts cast by the realities of power politics.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.