Advocates are expressing cautious optimism as an agreement between Israel and Hamas to pause the fighting in Gaza and release captives brings a temporary halt to the violence. The deal, which has been approved by the Israeli government, will see the release of 50 women and children held in Gaza by Hamas, and the freedom of 150 Palestinian women and children from Israeli prisons. It will also include a four-day pause in the fighting and an increased delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza. While many see this as an important step towards ending the conflict, advocates stress that it is not enough and are calling on the Biden administration to pursue a long-term ceasefire.
Hassan El-Tayyab, legislative director for Middle East policy at the advocacy group Friends Committee on National Legislation, emphasized the need for a permanent ceasefire and a solution for peace for both Israelis and Palestinians. He stated, “We have to continue building momentum to reach a permanent ceasefire, a return of all the hostages, unfettered aid access, and a solution for peace for Israelis and Palestinians.”
President Biden welcomed the agreement and thanked Qatar and Egypt for their role in brokering it. He also praised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for his commitment to the extended pause and the provision of additional humanitarian assistance. However, Biden did not comment on the future of the conflict, as his administration has been calling for “humanitarian pauses” rather than a full ceasefire.
Nancy Okail, president of the Center for International Policy, described the truce as a “step in the right direction” and highlighted the importance of using this pause to deliver aid, push for a lasting ceasefire, and ensure the safety of humanitarian workers, medics, and journalists. She emphasized that it is crucial to save lives and stop the bloodshed.
The violence in Gaza has resulted in the deaths of over 14,500 people, with thousands of Palestinians in Israeli jails, including hundreds of children. Scholars and United Nations experts have warned of the risk of genocide, and concerns have been raised about the possible ethnic cleansing of Palestinians.
While rights groups like Amnesty International have accused Israel of imposing apartheid on Palestinians, appeals for Biden to address Israeli abuses appear to be going unheard. The Biden administration has expressed concern that the pause could lead to increased media coverage of the devastation in Gaza that may turn public opinion against Israel.
Rights advocates are also fearful that renewed bombing after the truce could target the densely populated southern Gaza, as families have fled to escape bombings and attacks. Despite these concerns, Biden’s support for Israel is expected to remain steadfast.
Progressive activists in the US are urging a political solution to end the violence, going beyond the current deal. They are calling for the US to end its unconditional support for the Israeli government and demand a permanent ceasefire. The temporary pause is seen as a necessary reprieve, but the push for a lasting solution continues.
As the situation remains uncertain, it is crucial for independent observers to assess the impact of the conflict in Gaza and for the truth to come out. The US must consider its stance on the use of its supplied arms and hold Israel accountable for any war crimes.
In conclusion, while the temporary pause in the fighting and the release of captives are important steps towards ending the violence in Gaza, advocates emphasize the need for a permanent ceasefire and a comprehensive solution for peace. The Biden administration’s support for Israel and its reluctance to address Israeli abuses are raising concerns among rights groups. The push for a political solution and an end to the conflict continues.
