The news that Israel and Gaza have signed a cease-fire agreement — hostages and prisoners released, fighting stopped, aid flowing in — brings a moment of relief after years of unbearable suffering.

For families of those held captive or killed, deep mourning now coexists with the fragile hope that maybe, just maybe, this is a turning point. As someone who has spent two decades working on peacebuilding initiatives with Israelis and Palestinians, I’m grateful they’re experiencing even a brief respite from a generational conflict.

“This is the historic dawn of a new Middle East,” President Donald Trump declared after the hostages were released.

It can be — if this cease-fire is followed by courageous, sustained efforts toward peace.

Cease-fires are the pause before the real work begins. Tr

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