A fragile calm has returned to Gaza as a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas took effect at midday, prompting thousands of displaced Palestinians to begin returning to their devastated homes. The truce marks the start of a 72-hour window for the release of 48 Israeli hostages, including 20 believed to be alive, under a peace initiative brokered by former U.S. President Donald Trump.
Following two years of relentless conflict, the Israeli military has begun a partial withdrawal, allowing Hamas fighters to emerge from underground tunnels and patrol the streets. The ceasefire, part of a broader peace plan, coincides with Trump’s upcoming visit to Israel, where he is expected to deliver a speech at the Knesset and meet with freed hostages before heading to Egypt for a summit with global leaders.
Jared Kushner, one of the architects of the peace deal, visited the Western Wall with his wife Ivanka, expressing optimism about the potential for lasting peace.
Despite the ceasefire, concerns remain about who will govern Gaza moving forward. The withdrawal has created a power vacuum, and questions linger about Hamas’ future role. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that Hamas must disarm, stating that if peaceful disarmament fails, military force will be used to ensure Gaza is demilitarized.
The ceasefire has been described as deeply emotional by Israeli officials. Brigadier General Effie Defrin, speaking on behalf of the IDF, broke down while announcing the truce, reflecting on the sacrifices made by Israeli soldiers and the toll of the war, which has claimed the lives of approximately 1,000 Israeli troops and over 60,000 Palestinians, according to Hamas-run health authorities.
As part of the transition, 200 U.S. military personnel have been deployed to Israel to help coordinate humanitarian aid and support the arrival of an international peacekeeping force composed of Arab and Muslim nations. These troops will not enter Gaza but will assist from outside.
Once the hostages are released, Hamas is expected to fully disarm. International pressure is mounting, with countries like Qatar, Egypt, and the UK urged to influence Hamas leadership to comply with the agreement. A Board of Peace will be established to oversee the transition, though the inclusion of former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair has sparked controversy among Palestinians due to his role in the Iraq War.
As Gazans walk through the ruins of their neighborhoods, carrying what little they have left, the world watches closely to see whether this ceasefire will hold—and whether it can pave the way for a lasting peace.
Source: Palestinians returning to Gaza's north as Netanyahu thanks Trump for securing ceasefire - BBC News
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