A landmark ceasefire agreement has been reached between Israel and Hamas, offering a glimmer of hope in the midst of a devastating war. The deal, confirmed by US and Hamas officials, will involve the release of hostages held by Hamas, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from populated Gaza areas, and the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. This initial six-week truce marks a significant step towards ending the conflict, though many crucial questions remain regarding a lasting peace and the reconstruction of Gaza.
It would allow hundreds of thousands of people displaced in Gaza to return to what remains of their homes and flood badly needed humanitarian aid into a devastated territory.Palestinians celebrate the announcement of a ceasefire deal between Hamas and Israel in Deir al-Balah.
"For the sake of the people of Israel and the families waiting in agony and for the sake of the innocent people in Gaza who suffered unimaginable devastation because of the war." "Hezbollah is badly degraded. And after more than 15 months of war, Hamas's senior leaders are dead. Thousands of Hamas fighters are dead, and the military formations have been destroyed.""The Palestinian people have gone through hell. Too many innocent people have died. Too many communities have been destroyed," he said.
Rockets fired from Gaza and intercepted by Israel's Iron Dome anti-missile system over Israeli skies are seen from Gaza City, on May 13, 2023. Trump in his posting added that his incoming Mideast envoy, Steve Witkoff, would continue "to work closely with Israel and our Allies to make sure Gaza NEVER again becomes a terrorist safe haven."
Over six weeks, 33 of the nearly 100 hostages are to be reunited with their loved ones after months in in captivity with no contact with the outside world, though it's unclear if all are alive. It remained unclear exactly when and how many displaced Palestinians would be able to return to what remains of their homes.
The US, along with Egypt and Qatar, have brokered months of indirect talks between the bitter enemies that finally culminated in this latest deal. It comes afterin November, after more than a year of conflict linked to the war in the Gaza.
GAZA HAMAS ISRAEL CEASEFIRE HOSTAGES MIDDLE EAST WAR PEACE
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