Now What?

This week, a cease fire deal was announced to bring an end to the war in Gaza. This was not the first attempt at ending the escalating war which began on 7 October 2023 with attacks on Israel by Hamas, and the taking of Israeli hostages. The first cease fire deal in November 2023 lasted 4 days, a second which started on 19 January 2025 was also unsuccessful. The new deal included the release of Israeli hostages taken on 7 October as well as the release almost 2000 Palestinian detainees who were held and not charged by the Israeli government and prisoners. As the celebrations begin, there are yet questions and concerns that have not been addressed.

In the past two years of conflict, multiple agencies, organizations including the United Nations and Amnesty International amassed evidence to conclude that Israel was committing genocide in Gaza. Faith Communities, including the United Church of Christ have also called for the end of the genocide against the Palestinian people. The denial of humanitarian aid into Gaza for months has exacerbated the ravages of war with residents, including medical professionals starving.

As this cease fire deal is implemented, what are the expectations of care for those denied food and care? Who will ensure that these needs are addressed immediately? And where are the accountabilities for the war crimes and crimes against humanity committed during this genocidal war? How will people and community be restored in the months and years to come?

Celebration is warranted for this deal, with hope that the deal is indeed the end to the destruction of lives and homes. Provisions should be made to ensure that all aspects of this cease fire are maintained and yet, a cease fire deal is not enough for Palestinians.

In the weeks leading up to this cease fire deal, the United States voted against a cease fire resolution offered by the UN Security Council at a time when there is increasing European support for Palestinian statehood. Permanent resolution of tensions in the region need to address the underlying and systemic issues which continue to point to a two state solution which was recently endorsed by the UN General Assembly.

“Now what?” is a resounding question amidst the celebration. Over 67,000 Palestinians were killed in Gaza over the past two years. The loss of life is one aspect of the devastation.

NPR reported on the extensive devastation: “Out of every 10 people, one has been killed or injured in an Israeli strike. Nine are displaced. At least three have not eaten for days. Out of every 100 children, four have lost either one or both parents. Out of every 10 buildings that stood in Gaza prewar, eight are either damaged or flattened. Out of every 10 homes, nine are wrecked. Out of every 10 acres of cropland, eight are razed (more than three out of every four hectares).”

There is gratitude for an end to the genocide, and gratitude for the return of hostages and prisoners, and the opportunity for the displaced to return to their homes. Many of their homes have been destroyed. Attention must turn to resolving the crisis and caring for the people and to justice for those killed because of this genocidal war. The shouts of celebration cannot mask the grief and mourning, or the crimes against humanity that were committed.

The voices of the faith community should join those of governments, humanitarian agencies and nongovernmental organizations calling for Palestinian freedom and statehood beyond this agreement. Advocacy and support are needed for Palestinian partners and communities.

At the time of cease fire, Israel remains in control of nearly 60 percent of Gaza with plans for a phased withdrawal. Israeli control must be relinquished and the territory returned to the Palestinian people with support for rebuilding. Israeli control is not a long-term option.