Rev. Munther Isaac, the outspoken Palestinian theologian and pastor of the Evangelical Lutheran church in the West Bank town of Bethlehem outlined on Friday his thoughts on the Gaza ceasefire and what must come next:
“To begin with, I am still cautious: I will believe it when I see it. But, hoping that the ceasefire materializes, we can’t but feel relieved and grateful. Gaza has endured immense suffering, with far too many lives lost. At this moment, we just want the killing to stop. I am also grateful for all who will be set free, Palestinians and Israelis alike. I hope and pray that we reach a point in which all captives are set free.
“While a ceasefire is certainly something to celebrate, it cannot be our goal. This is not a moment to rest. Too many questions are still unanswered. Too many wounds are not healed. Will the rebuilding begin, and especially that of hospitals? Will sufficient food and medical aid enter Gaza? Will doctors and nurses be allowed to enter Gaza and nurse the thousands who need immediate support? Will those who suffered and lost their loved ones find comfort? What about the thousands with imputed body parts? What about the two million refugees? Is the ceasefire temporary, or will the fighting and shelling resume? We are left with so many uncertainties and questions about the immediate future, both in Gaza and the West Bank.
“Moreover: will those who committed war crimes ever be held accountable?
