A cease-fire has been announced in the Gaza conflict, and we are all waiting to see if it takes hold. The cease-fire was announced by the Egyptians and the Americans, a signal that the US has fully embraced the new Egyptian government (a very good sign). The details of the case-fire are somewhat obscure right now, so I won’t comment on the terms until I have better information. Both the Israelis and Hamas are claiming victory, and, in truth, both sides can assert some advantages from the fight. But the most important issue is whether the cease-fire has a direction toward a more lasting peace.
As we learn more about the terms of the cease-fire, one of the most important items to watch for is how the current blockade surrounding Gaza will be lifted. In international law, a blockade is usually considered an act of war, but Israel has maintained tight control over all imports and exports from the Gaza, including items that really have no connection to a military capability. The blockade is also largely responsible for the stunning poverty of the people living within the Gaza.
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