GAZA: Palestinians in Gaza and families of Israeli hostages broke into emotional celebrations on Thursday after news of a pact between Israel and Hamas to end the war in Gaza and bring home all Israeli hostages, both living and dead.
In Gaza, where over 2 million people have been displaced by Israeli airstrikes, crowds cheered and clapped in the shattered streets—despite continued strikes in some areas. “Thank God for the ceasefire, the end of bloodshed and killing,” said Abdul Majeed Abd Rabbo from Khan Younis in southern Gaza. “All of Gaza, all Arab people, and the world are happy with this ceasefire.” In Tel Aviv, families of Israeli hostages gathered at Hostages Square, where they have long demanded the return of their loved ones. The atmosphere turned emotional as news of the agreement spread.
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The ceasefire and hostage deal mark the first phase of U.S. President Donald Trump’s 20-point peace plan for Gaza. The agreement, reached through indirect talks in Egypt, comes just a day after the second anniversary of the Hamas attack that triggered Israel’s massive assault on Gaza.
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Many in Gaza wept with joy, chanting “Allahu Akbar” (“God is Greatest”), expressing relief that the fighting may finally stop. “I couldn’t stop laughing and crying,” said Tamer Al-Burai, a businessman displaced from Gaza City. “We just want to go home, even if our homes are destroyed—just to sleep without fear.”
However, others voiced uncertainty about the future. “Our house was among the first to be destroyed,” said Zakeya Rezik, a 58-year-old mother of six. “Even if the war ends, we may live in tents for years until Gaza is rebuilt.”
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The Hamas-run Gaza government has urged residents not to return to their home areas yet, advising them to wait until the ceasefire terms are fully detailed and Israeli forces withdraw from occupied zones.
The deal has sparked hope and relief across the region, offering the strongest sign yet that one of the bloodiest conflicts in recent Middle Eastern history may finally be nearing its end.