After over a year of conflict between Israel and Hamas, a ceasefire agreement was reached in January, 2025, following months of negotiations facilitated by the United States, Qatar and Egypt. The agreement aims to bring an end to hostilities, facilitate humanitarian aid and establish conditions for long-term stability in the region. However, with the complexity of the agreement and longstanding tensions, the outcome remains uncertain.
The ceasefire agreement consists of three main phases. Phase one will last 42 days, enforcing a complete ceasefire. Hamas is set to release 33 hostages, including women, children and elderly individuals. Israel is expected to release approximately 1,900 Palestinian prisoners. Israeli forces will withdraw from populated areas, and humanitarian aid deliveries will be significantly increased, with 600 trucks entering Gaza daily. Palestinian civilians who were displaced during the conflict will be allowed to return to their neighborhoods. Israeli forces will, however, maintain positions in border areas.
During phase two, negotiations will commence on a permanent ceasefire. The remaining hostages in Gaza will be exchanged for additional Palestinian prisoners, and Israeli forces will be expected to withdraw from the region entirely. The third phase includes the recovery and return of the bodies of hostages who have died. Additionally, the ceasefire has created a long-term plan for Gaza’s reconstruction, which is anticipated to take years.
“I’m relieved to see progress toward peace, but without a long-term solution, fighting could start again,” sophomore Hedia Ninan said.
The ceasefire has brought temporary relief to a war-torn region, but many remain skeptical about its longevity. The conflict between Israel and Hamas is deeply rooted in decades of territorial disputes, political power struggles and mutual distrust.
“The ceasefire is necessary to prevent further loss of life, but history suggests these agreements can be fragile,” social studies teacher Ms. Madigan. “The key challenge will be ensuring that both parties adhere to the terms and engage in good-faith negotiations.”
“This ceasefire is important because it allows aid to reach people who desperately need it,” said junior Sanjna Nischal. “Regardless of politics, human suffering should not be ignored.”
Although the ceasefire takes place thousands of miles away, its effects are felt within the New Hyde Park community. Many students have family members in Israel, Palestine or surrounding regions. The agreement has also influenced discussions in classrooms and among peers, which has led to greater engagement in learning about global affairs. Social media has also played a major role in shaping perspectives, with updates creating a mix of awareness and exhaustion.
“I have seen an increase in discussion among students as many students’ families are directly affected by the conflict,” senior Victoria Wittek said. “It’s important for any academic environment to create spaces where these topics can be appropriately discussed.”
If successfully implemented, the ceasefire could pave the way for more comprehensive peace negotiations. However, unresolved political and security concerns pose significant challenges. The extensive destruction in Gaza, where 60-70% of buildings have been damaged or destroyed, will require substantial efforts for rebuilding.
International attention remains focused on the agreement’s progress, with global leaders urging both sides to maintain dialogue and prevent further conflict. Whether this ceasefire leads to lasting peace or serves as a temporary pause in hostilities will depend on the commitment of all parties involved.
