On Point with Meghna Chakrabarti Unpacking the details of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire
Oct 21, 2025
Joining the discussion are Leila Farsak, a Palestinian political economist from UMass Boston, and Dan Rotham, a senior fellow at the Atlantic Council and former peace negotiations adviser. They dive deep into the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, highlighting both hopeful and troubling aspects. The guests analyze humanitarian aid dynamics, challenges in disarming Hamas, and the real implications of a multinational task force. They also debate the legitimacy of Hamas as a governing entity and stress the necessity for Palestinian agency and effective governance.
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Ceasefire Holds But Is Fragile
- The October 9 ceasefire held in principle but relies heavily on U.S. pressure and engagement to remain stable.
- Leila Farsak argues Hamas, Israel, and U.S. determination shape whether the truce endures.
Aid Levels Fall Short
- The implementation step to return to January 2025 aid levels has not been met; Israel allows roughly half the promised trucks.
- Leila Farsak warns aid will be used as bargaining leverage over bodies and reconstruction equipment.
Hostage Returns Remain Incomplete
- The deal required Hamas to return remains within 72 hours but practical obstacles delay full compliance.
- Dan Rotham notes some bodies remain buried under rubble and hostage returns are ongoing.
