Celebrations broke out across Gaza as a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas took effect after a three-hour delay. Despite continued uncertainty, Palestinians began returning to their homes, and Israel named the first hostages to be released.
The truce, which began Sunday at 11:15 a.m. local time, marks a crucial moment in the 15-month conflict. Brokered through intensive mediation by the U.S., Qatar, and Egypt, the six-week ceasefire aims to reduce hostilities and facilitate the exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners. However, it remains a fragile agreement, underscored by violence before its implementation.
Displaced Palestinians Return Amid Devastation
Majida Abu Jarad, who fled her home in Beit Hanoun during the war’s early days, prepared to return despite uncertainty. She and her family, displaced multiple times, now face the challenge of rebuilding their lives in northern Gaza.
“Once they announced the truce, we began packing, ready to return to whatever is left of our home,” Abu Jarad said.
The ceasefire enables thousands of displaced Palestinians to go back to their communities while humanitarian aid surges into Gaza. Aid trucks lined up at the Rafah crossing in Egypt, signaling the start of recovery efforts.
Phases of the Ceasefire and Rebuilding Challenges
The ceasefire is structured in three phases. In the first six weeks, Hamas will release 33 hostages, and Israel will free 737 Palestinian prisoners. Israeli forces will withdraw to create a buffer zone, allowing displaced Palestinians to return.
The second phase includes the release of all remaining hostages and a full Israeli troop withdrawal. The third phase focuses on long-term reconstruction, with Gaza receiving international aid for rebuilding its infrastructure.
Over 46,000 Palestinians and more than 1,200 Israelis have died in the conflict. Gaza’s infrastructure lies in ruins, with €17.9 billion needed for rebuilding. Experts estimate that Gaza’s economy could take centuries to recover without lifting the Israeli blockade.
This ceasefire, though tenuous, offers a chance to halt the devastating cycle of violence and begin addressing Gaza’s monumental challenges.
