COMMENTARY MAGAZINE
A Soldier’s Perspective on the Ceasefire
Seth Mandel
January 16, 2025

Hundreds of thousands of Israelis have fought in the war against Hamas since October 2003, yet the perspective of the Israeli soldier is often missing from the discussions of the conflict. A friend of mine who is serving his fourth tour in Gaza in this war alone yesterday posted his perspective on this week’s ceasefire deal, and it’s worth considering, since it addresses some of the skepticism toward the deal. G. is a master sergeant, a reservist, and makes two arguments worth grappling with. First, he writes, “As the military campaign reaches a turning point, it is crucial for Israeli society to begin moving forward. In my opinion, the time has come to focus on healing the nation, supporting those who have suffered, and rebuilding the foundations of strength and resilience. READ MORE

ALGEMEINER Mike Waltz Vows Trump Admin Will Support Israel Resuming Operations in Gaza if Hamas Violates Ceasefire Deal Reflecting on the newly announced ceasefire deal between Israel and the Hamas terrorist group, US Rep. Mike Waltz (R-FL), who is set to become White House national security adviser under incoming President Donald Trump, has vowed that the Trump administration will support Israel renewing military operations in Gaza if Hamas launches more attacks against the Jewish state and violates the agreement…”If they need to go back in, we’re with them.”

NEW YORK POST Senior Hamas official praised Oct. 7 attack on Israel after cease-fire deal struck: ‘Miraculous achievement’ A senior Hamas leader praised the Oct. 7 terror attack as a “miraculous military and security achievement,” while promising “justice” for those who committed so-called “genocide” in a stunning speech just after the cease-fire deal was announced. Khalil al-Hayya’s televised remarks were delivered from Qatar on Wednesday just hours after a long-awaited and widely celebrated cease-fire deal was reached between Israel and Hamas.