Ceasefire

On January 15, 2025, the world learned about the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, which ended a 15-month-long conflict that claimed thousands of lives and left countless people homeless. This agreement, brokered by Egypt and Qatar, was the result of complex negotiations, in which the actions of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump played a significant role.

In the article by The Economist, it is noted that Trump, aiming to avoid involvement in a new Middle Eastern conflict, "made it clear to the Israelis that he does not want to enter the White House to manage yet another war in the Middle East." This signal put pressure on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who, "fearing to damage relations with Trump, likely overcame resistance from the radical members of his cabinet" to approve the deal.

The news of the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas dominated headlines across global media. The word "ceasefire" remained on front pages for several days, while world leaders rushed to declare themselves as key peacemakers. U.S. President Joe Biden officially announced the agreement, emphasizing his administration's role in its achievement. Meanwhile, President-elect Donald Trump claimed that his election victory served as the catalyst for the ceasefire. This was reported by Reuters.

Rescuers carry the body of a woman from the rubble of a house in the Gaza Strip.

Mohammed Dahman

Destruction in the Gaza Strip.

Ahmad Hasaballah

These photographs serve as a stark reminder of the true cost of any armed conflict. Destroyed homes, the injured, and the dead—this is the reality that won't be shown during leaders' press conferences. While politicians negotiate and boast about their achievements, ordinary people pay the highest price: with their lives, their homes, and their safety.

Wars, like their conclusions, are almost always decided behind closed doors. The beginning and end of a conflict become tools for political PR, opportunities to consolidate power or gain international recognition. The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas is yet another example of how world leaders proclaim themselves peacemakers, overshadowing the millions of tragedies the war has already caused. In the media landscape, this reality gets lost amidst talk of "diplomatic victories" and "successful negotiations."

Monireh Ahmadi

This illustration by Monireh Ahmadi vividly captures the essence of the current conflict and the ceasefire achieved. A handshake between the parties—Israel and Hamas—takes place against the backdrop of an hourglass, its lower half filled with a pile of skulls. It is a powerful visual reminder that every political decision during a war is paid for with the lives of real people.

This piece perfectly conveys the idea that behind the grand words and agreements are those whose voices go unheard—the victims and the wounded, who can never be brought back.

Allan McDonald

Another illustration, this time by Allan McDonald, adds a harsher focus on the tragedy of such conflicts. It depicts faceless elites in formal suits standing around a coffin labeled "Gaza". One of them, distinguished by a red tie, raises a hand as if celebrating the "ceasefire".

This visual commentary underscores the cynicism of situations where grand announcements of a ceasefire are accompanied by silence about the destruction and losses left behind. The illustration practically screams that behind the coffin, symbolizing the suffering of Gaza's residents, lies cold calculation and political interests.

Reza Aghili

Reza Aghili's illustration adds a philosophical and emotional depth to the theme of destruction and lost humanity. The drawing depicts two figures symbolizing opposing sides of the conflict, watching as a victim amidst the ruins desperately searches for a trace of life.

This dialogue delves into the very heart of the conflict: despite the destruction, those caught in the epicenter have not lost their hope or will to live. The paradox lies in the fact that those observing from the heights of their positions remain passive witnesses to human tragedy.

The question that remains unanswered is: how much longer will the world follow this formula—politicians start wars, then end them and declare themselves peacemakers, while the real price is paid by ordinary people? Those whose suffering is too often overlooked amid the loud proclamations of peace being achieved.

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