-Analysis-
PARIS — The announcement of a ceasefire between Israeli forces and Palestinian factions in Gaza has sparked mixed reactions across the Arab world. While many view it as a much-needed respite for Gaza’s population, others remain skeptical about its sustainability given the long-standing conflict.
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The agreement, brokered by Egypt, the United States and Qatar after weeks of diplomatic negotiations, includes halting hostilities, opening humanitarian corridors, and facilitating the return of international observers. It also includes a prisoner exchange, aiming to stabilize relations.
Yet the ceasefire is seen as temporary, with the international community urging efforts for a lasting peace agreement. Media outlets across the Arab world, ranging from independent platforms to state-backed institutions, have offered varying perspectives- emphasizing both the diplomatic achievement and the uncertainties surrounding the agreement’s long-term viability.
Focus on humanitarian toll
Outlets including Al-Jazeera and the Saudi-owned Al Arabiya have dedicated significant coverage to the humanitarian toll of the conflict, emphasizing the plight of displaced families and the destruction of infrastructure in Gaza.
Al-Jazeera reported that “81 Palestinians have been martyred and more than 188 wounded, most of them women and children, since the announcement of a ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip on Wednesday evening, as a result of a series of intensive Israeli raids that targeted homes and residential areas in several areas of the Strip.”
The Qatari network's report on the deaths and injuries of civilians, primarily women and children, underscores the continued suffering despite the ceasefire, amplifying the urgency for a more effective and lasting resolution.
Mediators' diplomacy and accountability
These networks also highlight the diplomatic efforts of regional mediators Egypt and Qatar. Discussions often include critiques of Israeli military actions and calls for unity among Palestinian factions to strengthen their negotiating position.
For instance, an article by Al Arabiya indirectly criticizes Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's claims that Hamas is backtracking on the ceasefire, framing it as an attempt to undermine the agreement and deflect attention from Israel’s actions in Gaza.
“Hours after the announcement of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza, despite the ongoing Israeli bombing of the Strip, [Netanyahu] accused the Hamas movement of retracting some of the details of the deal, which led to a delay in the government’s approval of it," the Saudi-owned outlet writes. Such reports emphasize the need for balanced accountability and question the sincerity of Israeli commitments to peace.
Optimism from state-controlled media
In contrast, state-controlled media in Egypt, Jordan and the UAE have framed the ceasefire as a diplomatic achievement for their governments, emphasizing their roles in fostering stability.
Egyptian media highlights Cairo's central role in brokering the agreement and facilitating humanitarian aid. In the country's most widely circulating daily newspaper, Al-Ahram, Ismail Gomaa signs an article titled: "Gaza Breathes a Sigh of Relief... Egypt's Efforts Bear Fruit... Sisi Welcomes the Achievement of a Ceasefire Agreement in the Strip through Egyptian-Qatari-American Mediation," celebrating the ceasefire by centering Egypt’s diplomatic efforts in the process.
Jordan's support spotlighted
In Jordan, one of the country’s most popular newspapers, Addustour, celebrated the ceasefire by spotlighting Palestinians in Gaza expressing gratitude to King Abdullah II for his support and solidarity. The publication emphasized the monarch's commitment to providing humanitarian aid to Gaza; it highlights his intentions to increase Jordan’s role in addressing the ongoing crisis and advocating for a long-term resolution that ensures the rights and dignity of the Palestinian people.
Jordanian newspaper Addustor's front page for Jan. 16. The banner headline reads "People of Gaza: We will not forget the stance of the King and the Jordanians."
Divergent narratives and grassroots voices
While some media highlight the ceasefire as a strategic victory for Palestinian resistance, others question its long-term viability, pointing to unresolved political divisions and the need for sustained international pressure on Israel. Social media platforms and grassroots journalism have amplified on-the-ground perspectives, showcasing the enduring challenges faced by Palestinians in Gaza in the aftermath of the violence.
Bisan Owda, Peabody Award winner and one of the loudest voices for Palestinians, uploaded a video to her Instagram page highlighting that this ceasefire does not mean that the war is over. In it, she said that “this is not what the Palestinian people deserve, this is only a ceasefire for the ongoing genocide… this is not what will lead to our freedom, but it will stop the killing machines."
Owda and many others are skeptical when it comes to Netenyahu’s compliance to the Qatari-American efforts.
Social media and citizens' reactions
Across the Arab world, social media has become a powerful platform for public reaction to the ceasefire. Citizens from countries like Egypt, Jordan and Syria have expressed a range of emotions, from cautious optimism to deep skepticism.
In Egypt, where the government played a central role in facilitating the ceasefire, social media users carefully expressed their relief for their Palestinian brothers and sisters.
This is evident through the various videos of Egyptian homes filled with Zaghareet, also known as ululation. Despite restrictions on public gatherings, many Egyptians managed to find creative ways to celebrate and show solidarity with Gaza, using hashtags, virtual rallies and flash protests to express their support.
In Jordan, where there is strong presence of and public support for Palestinians, citizens have largely welcomed the ceasefire, though concerns persist over the lack of a permanent solution. Jordanians, across different governorates, took to the street to celebrate the halt of bloodshed in Gaza.
Beirut-based Daraj was already looking ahead to what the post-war leadership of the Palestinians could look like, asking if the man of the moment is Mohammed Dahlan, a "cunning" politician with ties in both the West Bank and Gaza.
In Syria, where the government has maintained strong political ties with Palestinian factions, the ceasefire is seen as a victory for Arab diplomacy. But many citizens are cautious about its real impact, given the complex regional dynamics. Social media has acted as a space for people to share solidarity with Gaza, and despite the official restrictions, many found ways to celebrate and unite virtually, demonstrating the power of online activism.