The Gaza Strip, ravaged by a relentless 15-month war, witnessed a glimmer of hope as a ceasefire took effect on Sunday. Nearly the entire population of 2.3 million has been rendered homeless, yet the truce has brought a temporary respite from the violence. The ceasefire follows a Hamas raid on October 7, 2023, which resulted in over 1,200 deaths and more than 250 abductions in Israel. In a reciprocal gesture, Hamas released three Israeli hostages while Israel freed 90 Palestinian prisoners.
The halt in hostilities marks a significant pause in the conflict that has destabilized the Middle East. Medical officials in Gaza report over 47,000 Palestinian casualties due to Israeli attacks, while approximately 400 Israeli soldiers have lost their lives. On the streets of Gaza City, people waved Palestinian flags and captured the momentous occasion on their phones.
Despite the ceasefire, uncertainty looms as there is no detailed plan for governing or rebuilding Gaza post-war. The truce mandates the cessation of fighting, delivery of aid to Gaza, and the release of 33 remaining Israeli and foreign hostages during the initial six-week phase. In exchange, nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners will be released from Israeli jails.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the nation with a poignant message:
"I would like you to tell them: Romi, Doron and Emily – an entire nation embraces you. Welcome home."
The Israeli military confirmed that Romi Gonen, Doron Steinbrecher, and Emily Damari have been reunited with their mothers and appeared to be in good health. This emotional reunion symbolizes a significant step towards peace.
In Gaza, blue-uniformed Hamas policemen and armed fighters made their presence known in Khan Younis, where crowds erupted in cheers. Fireworks illuminated the night sky as buses carrying Palestinian prisoners reached Ramallah in the West Bank. The truce has afforded Palestinians the chance to return to their devastated neighborhoods and begin the arduous process of rebuilding their lives. Meanwhile, relief trucks have started delivering essential aid to the beleaguered region.
U.S. President Joe Biden expressed optimism over the ceasefire's implementation:
"Today the guns in Gaza have gone silent."
However, Mike Waltz, national security adviser-designate, stressed the importance of ensuring that Hamas does not regain control:
"Hamas will never govern Gaza. That is completely unacceptable."
In Gaza City, residents like Ahmed Abu Ayham reflected on the emotional toll of the conflict:
"We are in pain, deep pain and it is time to hug one another and cry."
The United States has pledged its support to Israel should Hamas violate the agreement. This assurance underscores the international community's vested interest in maintaining stability in the region.
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