Local leaders express cautious optimism over the Israel-Hamas ceasefire, hoping for lasting peace and the return of hostages.

Stefanie Tuzman, president of Jewish Nevada, echoed this sentiment, expressing hope for the safe return of hostages and a path toward peace. Las Vegas Mayor Shelley Berkley also shared her concerns for those still in captivity, emphasizing the need for all hostages to be released.
For the Palestinian community, this ceasefire offers a moment of relief. Edward Ahmed Mitchell from the Council on American-Islamic Relations highlighted the ongoing grief for many Palestinian-Americans with family in Gaza. The ceasefire brings hope for those who have lost loved ones and for those still trapped.
On the campus of the University of Nevada-Las Vegas, tensions have eased since the ceasefire announcement. Gaia Steinberg, president of the Students Supporting Israel chapter, believes this will lead to a calmer environment among student groups. Professor Robert Levrant noted that discussions have improved, allowing for more constructive dialogue.
While the ceasefire is temporary, many are hopeful it could lead to lasting peace. As Levrant put it, the next few weeks will be crucial in determining the future of the conflict. Everyone is crossing their fingers that this time, it really is the beginning of the end.