College campuses across the US have hosted large protests over the Israel-Hamas war. This included the protests at the University of Alaska Anchorage. Amid the ongoing unrest Anchorage students react to the Gaza ceasefire, expressing diverse emotions.
On Wednesday, Israel and Hamas reached an agreement to pause fighting in Gaza temporarily. The ceasefire, expected to begin Sunday, remains uncertain as mediators finalize the details. 21-year-old Kenan Metzger said he was happy that the violence had temporarily stopped.
“I mean, ultimately, it’s a great thing that bullets will not be fired anymore. No matter the outcome after that, it’s a good thing people aren’t dying,” Metzger stated. Although uncertainty remains, he hopes the reprieve will result in more advancements.
22-year-old Evan Leaf is a civil engineering student. He strongly emphasizes the local civilian population and is against all forms of violence. Despite his doubts about the ceasefire’s sustainability, Leaf declared that a two-state solution is the only path forward.
Elisa Karahan, 19, majoring in mechanical engineering, highlighted how the war affected her personally. “I’m happy that at least there is some shred of hope out there in the future and that people aren’t getting slaughtered just because of where they live and where their land is,” Larhan stated.
Another student, Max Hume, who is also 22 years old, spoke about the emotional reaction to Gazans sharing their experience online. He further stated, “I know that there is definitely conflict with regard to the land that Israel possesses…I don’t know how easily that’s going to be resolved, even in my lifespan.”
He also added that the fear of the ceasefire breaking persists. Despite doubts, he felt warmed by the thought of Gazans potentially living without constant fear. As the Anchorage students react to the Gaza ceasefire reflects a mix of optimism and skepticism, focusing on the hope of prolonged peace.
This news article was originally published by Alaska’s News Source.
