Fox Point mother worries about son studying in Israel, amid Middle East violence

FOX POINT -- A week of violence in the Middle East has come to an end . Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Egypt's foreign minister announced a cease fire Wednesday, November 21st between Israel and Hamas militants. 

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the deal, saying he had agreed after consulting with President Barack Obama.

The agreement calls for Israel to cease all military activity against the Hamas-ruled Gaza Strip and for Palestinian militants to cease rocket attacks into Israel.

A Fox Point, Wisconsin mother has been keeping a close eye on the escalating conflict in the Middle East. Her son is currently living in Israel, and she told FOX6 News she is cautiously optimistic about the cease-fire agreement.

After over a week of fighting and more than 150 deaths, with missile attacks and rocket airstrikes an everyday occurrence, there is concern in Wisconsin for a son living thousands of miles away.

Karen Shapiro's 18-year-old son Jacob Frazer is living in Arod, Israel, studying and volunteering. Shapiro said she speaks to him every few days, but can't help but worry.

"Obviously, we're very worried and concerned. Fortunately, he is out of range of any of the missiles and rockets that are being launched. I worry about, is Jacob planning to take a bus anywhere this weekend? You think about, well should he be getting on the bus?" Shapiro said.

Shapiro said she has been glued to her computer, getting updates on the violence and talking with her son.

"The program he is on is doing a terrific job in taking all necessary, extra precautions to keep the children safe and secure and out of harm's way," Shapiro said.

Shapiro said her stresses are lessening as she heard the news of a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas. 

"I'm sure some people are breathing a sigh of relief, but I'm sure at the same time, people are really worried about if there's going to be a long-lasting peace in the near term in the region," Shapiro said.

Shapiro said she hopes the peace holds and her son returns home safely.

"I'm hoping that longer-lasting negotiations will result after that short time. Thoughts and prayers to those who are affected by the conflict," Shapiro said.