jordan pulse -

By Dr. Laith Abdullah Al-Qahawi

Gaza has endured years of relentless wars and military escalations, becoming a focal point for humanitarian and political crises in the region. On 16 January 2025, Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, announced a ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel, achieved through intense Arab and US mediation. This truce offers a glimmer of hope to Gaza's war-weary population, promising a potential end to bloodshed. The agreement includes prisoner exchanges and measures to stabilize the ceasefire on the ground.

However, optimism remains tempered. Israeli airstrikes continued even as the truce was announced. On 14 January, an Israeli strike on a house in Khan Younis killed 12 Palestinians, including 10 from one family. On the same day, three others died in an attack on a displacement tent in Deir al-Balah. Such incidents heighten fears in Gaza about the ceasefire's durability, with doubts over monitoring mechanisms and political will among the warring parties.

Humanitarian Woes and Calls for Aid

The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire. Over two million residents face severe shortages of food, medicine, and fuel, exacerbated by the destruction of infrastructure and soaring unemployment. Calls for sustained international aid and unrestricted border crossings grow louder, as any renewed escalation could plunge Gaza back into crisis.

Jordan’s Diplomatic Role

Jordan has played a pivotal role in supporting the Palestinian cause, with King Abdullah II consistently advocating for de-escalation and a just, comprehensive resolution. His emphasis on a two-state solution and a Palestinian state along the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, aligns with Jordan’s Hashemite custodianship of Jerusalem’s holy sites. Amman’s regional and international coordination underscores its influence in pushing for respected, actionable peace initiatives.

Challenges to Lasting Peace

While the ceasefire is seen as a stepping stone toward broader negotiations on critical issues like Jerusalem, refugees, borders, and settlements, skepticism abounds. Israel’s commitment to ending civilian targeting and lifting the blockade, alongside Palestinian factions’ restraint, will be critical. International pressure and funding are also essential to rebuild Gaza and improve living conditions.

The new truce carries significant hope, but its success hinges on practical steps to protect civilians, ensure aid flow, and begin reconstruction. Jordan’s advocacy and diplomatic efforts remain central to fostering sustainable peace. If the truce evolves into a stable agreement, it could pave the way for long-term security and dignity for Gaza’s residents.