Ottawa families with loved ones caught in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict are anxiously awaiting the implementation of a recently signed truce. The news of the agreement, ratified by Israel’s cabinet on Saturday, has sparked a mix of emotions for those witnessing the devastating 15-month-long war that has torn apart communities. The ceasefire is expected to take effect on Sunday at 8:30 a.m. local time (1:30 a.m. ET), according to Qatar’s foreign minister.
Timea Spitka, a Carleton University professor and expert on conflict resolution, spent two decades in the region, including west and east Jerusalem. While her research and work with organizations like Oxfam and the United Nations give her deep insight into violent conflicts, her perspective is deeply personal—her eldest son was drafted into the Israel Defence Forces as a medic. Although he has avoided direct combat, Spitka described her hope for the ceasefire as a small light in a deeply troubling situation.
“It’s a relief to see steps toward peace,” Spitka shared, while noting that three of her four children remain in Israel. She emphasized the dire situation for Palestinians, describing it as “horrific,” and acknowledged the immense suffering on both sides.
For Ottawa resident Ola Alrayyes, whose family remains in Gaza, the news of the ceasefire offers only tentative relief. “We’re still holding our breath, hoping it goes through,” she said. Alrayyes has already endured immense loss, including the deaths of her aunt and her aunt’s entire family. The memories of war have left scars she believes will be difficult to heal.
“There’s no joy,” Alrayyes reflected. “Even if the ceasefire brings some safety, we will never be the same people we were before this war.”
This fragile moment of peace represents a glimmer of hope for many, but it comes with the weight of grief, loss, and the enduring challenge of rebuilding lives in the face of profound trauma.
Source: Swifteradio.com
