On October 10, 2025, Israel and Hamas agreed on a ceasefire, which is a temporary suspension of fighting. The deal occurred after months of failed agreements and nonstop fighting. Prior to the deal, Israel and Hamas were in a very heated war lasting over two years. It all began October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel, killing over a thousand civilians, kidnapping more than 200, and marking that day as one of the deadliest single days in Israeli history. In response to the attack, Israel launched a full-scale military campaign in Gaza, which led to the destruction of Hamas’ military and the killing of tens and thousands of Palestinian civilians. As well as the attacks, Israel also imposed a total blockade on Gaza, which is the sealing off of a place to prevent goods from entering or leaving. As a result of this, Israel cut off all of the region’s food, water, electricity, and fuel. Israel then proceeded to invade Gaza’s land, pushing into their major cities and causing horrific damage to civilian infrastructures, such as schools and homes. Due to the endless fighting on both ends, protests emerged all over the globe, with many people siding with Hamas for the damage Israel have done to innocent civilians, and people siding with Israel for the provocation Hamas did to start the war, dividing many.
The ceasefire has been a relief to many people around the world, with there finally being a pause in the fighting and deaths.
“The ceasefire in Gaza makes me feel really relieved because it means people won’t have to live in constant fear anymore. I hope this peace lasts so that everyone can start rebuilding their lives and feel safe again,” said sophomore Luca Drago.
Another sophomore, Alejandro Feria, shares a similar opinion.
“The ceasefire in Gaza is an important step to prevent the many civilian deaths. It will provide an opportunity for aid to the civilians and to repair damaged infrastructures,” he said.
Despite that level of optimism, some worry the ceasefire is fragile and could end abruptly.
“I feel like this ceasefire will help for a bit, but eventually Israel and Hamas will start fighting again,” said sophomore Mathias Fernandez.
The ceasefire is holding for now, but what the future holds for this war is still uncertain.
