The Decibel The difficult path ahead for peace in Gaza
Jan 17, 2025
Thomas Juneau, a Professor of public and international affairs at the University of Ottawa, dives into the complexities of the recent ceasefire in Gaza. He discusses the immediate emotions surrounding the announcement and the shifting sentiments in Israel. Juneau highlights the uphill battle ahead, focusing on hostage exchanges and the precarious trust between conflicting parties. He also examines the broader geopolitical implications, including the potential normalization of relations between Israel, Saudi Arabia, and the U.S., underscoring the delicate fabric of peace negotiations.
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Fragile Ceasefire
- The ceasefire's fragility is evident in ongoing Israeli airstrikes in Gaza after the initial announcement.
- These attacks aim to maximize Israel's advantage before the ceasefire takes effect, reflecting a common wartime tactic.
Ceasefire Confusion
- Confusion surrounds the ceasefire due to its lack of full formalization and vague long-term details.
- Disagreements within the Israeli government and the need for a deal led to postponing specific points, especially regarding Gaza's governance.
Timing and US Politics
- The ceasefire's timing, days before Trump's inauguration, is no coincidence, reflecting his desire to avoid inheriting the conflict.
- Trump's public and private pressure on Netanyahu likely influenced the deal's timing, though Hamas's weakened state also played a role.