In recent weeks, college campuses across the United States have become hotbeds of activism as students raise their voices in solidarity with the ongoing crisis in Gaza. From Northwestern's Deering Meadow to campuses coast-to-coast, youthful protesters are demanding immediate action to address the dire situation unfolding in the region.

The resonating call for a cease-fire and divestment from Israel has fueled discussions among students, highlighting the urgency of the matter. While these demands are fervently championed, some important considerations should not be overlooked.

A cease-fire, though crucial to address the pressing need for humanitarian aid and halt the escalating violence temporarily, may not provide a lasting solution if it merely pauses the bloodshed before it resumes. With Hamas still in power, a cease-fire could potentially ignite the fuse for the next round of attacks. However, these concerns seem to evade the protesters who question the very existence of Israel and its right to self-defense.

While students often exhibit long-term strategic thinking for their own futures, shifting their focus to potential job prospects in the fall, their empathy towards others seems to wane. Divestment, touted as a long-term solution, proves challenging in the face of an immediate crisis. It is akin to sitting on a curb, ordering fire extinguishers online while your house burns down. Moreover, the harsh reality is that even if U.S. universities were to divest all their investments connected to Israel or its military, the impact on Israel's economic health and the Gaza conflict would be minimal, given the current numbers.

According to 2023 data, American university endowments reached a cumulative total of $839 billion, representing only around 1.6% of the total U.S. financial markets valued at $50 trillion. Therefore, a complete withdrawal of university investments would have minimal financial repercussions on Israel and the war-torn region in the foreseeable future.

These discussions shed light on the complex realities of the Gaza crisis, where calls for an ideal world collide with the harshness of the present situation. Students' voices contribute to the dialogue, but it remains to be seen how their demands align with tangible long-term solutions that address the roots of the conflict.

As the tornado of uncertainties swirls on the horizon, the focus of attention should not be lost amidst the chaos. Although the allure of discussing lighter topics like yo-yos may provide temporary respite, the gravity of the situation demands continued discourse and activism towards achieving a sustainable resolution for all parties involved.

As the protests continue and tensions persist, college campuses serve as critical platforms for individuals to question, challenge, and advocate for change. Only time will tell if these efforts will contribute to a lasting impact on the crisis in Gaza or if they will remain a fleeting moment in the fight for justice and peace.

While the significance of yo-yos might have to wait until National Yo-Yo Day on June 6, the pressing issues at hand call for sustained attention and dedication towards a better future for all.