NOTE: If you are short on time, watch the video and complete this See, Think, Wonder activity: What did you notice? What did the story make you think about? What would you want to learn more about?

SUMMARY

Israel and Hamas launched indirect talks in Egypt for a potential ceasefire. The first phase of the U.S.-drafted peace plan calls for the release of the Israeli hostages in exchange for the partial withdrawal of Israeli troops. A second phase envisions the end of the war and a lasting governance plan for Gaza. Nick Schifrin reports.

View the transcript of the story.

News alternative: Check out recent segments from the NewsHour, and choose the story you’re most interested in watching. You can make a Google doc copy of discussion questions that work for any of the stories here.

WARM-UP QUESTIONS

1. Where are negotiations taking place for a ceasefire?
2. What are some of the proposed conditions for a ceasefire?
3. Who is questioning key aspects of the deal, according to Nick Schifrin?
4. How would the Trump administration plan transform Gaza?
5. Why is the Trump administration optimistic about a deal?

ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS

• Based on this report and what you already know about the conflict, how likely do you think it is that Israel and Hamas will reach a ceasefire or peace agreement in the near future?
• If Israel and Hamas don't reach an agreement, what do you think will happen next in Gaza?

Media literacy: Do you think this report should have described past attempts at ceasefires between Israel and Gaza? How could you find out more about the reasons past attempts did not lead to ceasefires?

WHAT STUDENTS CAN DO

Watch the following segment on Israeli reservists unwilling to fight in Gaza. If there is no time, skip to the question about the infographic below. As a class, discuss —

• Do you think that opposition to war within Israel might increase pressure for a ceasefire?
• If so, why? If not, why not?

Examine the infographic below from PBS News Hour. Then discuss —

• Do you think the balance of opinion suggested by the poll is reflected in the actions of the Israeli government?
• What other questions would you like to ask respondents to better understand attitudes toward the war within Israel?

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