Crowds in Gaza erupted in chants and embraces on Wednesday as news spread of a ceasefire and hostage release agreement between Israel and Hamas, aiming to end over 15 months of war in the Palestinian territory.
While a U.S. official and a source close to the negotiations confirmed the deal, Israel cautioned that some points “remain unresolved” but expressed hope they would soon be addressed.
In Khan Yunis, southern Gaza, and other areas, celebrations broke out. AFP reporters witnessed joyous scenes with people hugging, taking photos, and waving Palestinian flags. Many expressed relief and hope for an end to the prolonged violence.
“I can’t believe this nightmare is finally over,” said Randa Sameeh, 45, a woman displaced from Gaza City to Nuseirat Camp. “We’ve lost so many people and everything we had. As soon as the truce begins, I will visit my brother and family members’ graves to honor them properly.”
Outside Deir al-Balah’s Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital, hundreds of Palestinians gathered, chanting “Allahu Akbar” and raising flags. Some climbed onto shoulders to conduct interviews, while children looked on, trying to make sense of the commotion.
Abdul Karim, a 27-year-old in Gaza City, shared his joy: “Despite all we’ve lost, I’m overjoyed. I’ll finally reunite with my wife and children after a year apart.”
The agreement is expected to halt fighting in Gaza and facilitate the release of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails.
Hamas initiated the war on October 7, 2023, with a deadly attack on Israel, killing 1,210 people and taking 251 hostages. Israel’s retaliatory campaign has since claimed 46,707 lives in Gaza, according to figures from the Hamas-run health ministry, considered reliable by the UN.