By Wan Muhammad Aslah Wan Razali
KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 16 (Bernama) -- The recent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has been hailed by some as a step toward ending the bloodshed and offering a glimmer of hope for Gaza, while others remain sceptical, warning that it may not lead to lasting peace.
Senior Researcher at the Hashim Sani Centre for Palestine Studies at Universiti Malaya (UM), Prof Dr Mohammed H. Alaqad, described the ceasefire as a temporary pause in violence rather than a solution to the ongoing conflict.
According to Alaqad, a Palestinian himself, Hamas' decision to agree to the ceasefire was not a sign of weakness or fear but rather a step to protect the people of Gaza, who have endured relentless bombings, destruction, and hardship.
“Hamas made this decision to protect the people, not because they’re pressured by anyone. Our people in Gaza have suffered enough under Israel’s bombs and blockade.”
“This ceasefire is a moment to breathe, to regroup, and to let our people heal. But let’s be clear, this is not surrender—it’s a calculated move,” he said to Bernama.
While the pause in violence has allowed some humanitarian aid to reach Gaza, Alaqad stressed that the situation remains dire.
Hospitals are overwhelmed, and the blockade continues to suffocate the population.
“The bombings have stopped, yes, and families can search for loved ones and mourn without the constant fear of airstrikes. But as long as the blockade remains, our people are still suffocating,” he said.
Alaqad described the ceasefire as a brief respite rather than a genuine solution.
“Rebuilding Gaza’s infrastructure requires more than a few days of quiet.”
“Homes, schools, and hospitals are in ruins. Electricity is scarce, clean water is limited, and every day of this siege makes survival harder,” he said.
He called for the urgent lifting of the blockade and stressed that the “calm” is nothing more than a temporary pause in the ongoing struggle.
“Our people deserve more than temporary aid—they deserve justice, freedom, and a future without oppression,” he added.
He also pointed out that while countries like Egypt and Qatar may have played a role in brokering the ceasefire, Hamas makes decisions based on the needs of the people, independent of foreign influence.
“Resistance is rooted in the right to liberate our land and preserve our dignity,” he said, noting that Qatar’s support is aimed at rebuilding Gaza rather than dictating Hamas’s actions.
Reflecting on previous ceasefires, Alaqad said that Israel only understands the language of resistance.
“Every time we’ve agreed to a ceasefire, hoping the world would finally step in and force real change, we’ve been met with lies and broken promises.
“This time, we are watching closely. If they think this ceasefire means we’ve given up, they’re wrong. We are stronger, more prepared, and more determined than ever,” he said.
The ceasefire, set to begin on Sunday, was announced on Wednesday evening by Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman.
The deal, facilitated by Qatar, Egypt and the United States, is aimed at halting a 15-month conflict with an initial duration of 42 days.
The conflict has left more than 46,000 Gazans dead and over 11,000 missing, contributing to one of the most severe humanitarian crises in recent history.
Meanwhile, Islamic Relief Malaysia has welcomed the ceasefire, describing it as a step toward ending the prolonged conflict and reducing the immense suffering of the Palestinian people.
“This conflict has claimed many lives, destroyed infrastructure, and resulted in widespread displacement.
“We believe that through solidarity and collective efforts, we can help rebuild the lives of those affected and give them hope for a better future,” said the organisation in a statement.
Islamic Relief Malaysia called on all parties to adhere to the ceasefire agreement and respect the fundamental human rights of every individual.
The organisation also urged the international community to maintain pressure to uphold global peace and take coordinated action to support long-term recovery efforts in Gaza.
“We remain committed to providing humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza, including food, medical assistance, clean water, and psychosocial support,”
“May this achieved peace serve as the first step toward a comprehensive and just resolution for the Palestinian people,” it added.
– BERNAMA
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