After more than 15 months of blood and tears, the light of peace has finally shone on Gaza.
The phased ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel, signed on Wednesday, is expected to take effect on Sunday, bringing new hope to millions of people torn apart by the ongoing conflict.
With Qatar and Egypt as the backbone and the strong support of the United States (US), the agreement establishes a six-week truce.
The first phase of the agreement includes the gradual withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza and the release of 33 Israeli hostages, including women, children, and men over 50, in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.
US President Joe Biden described the agreement as an important step to “end the suffering” and reunite separated families.
On the streets of Gaza, joy and relief greeted the news, even as a dire humanitarian crisis continues to grip its population.
Food, water, and fuel supplies are at critical levels, while more than 2.3 million people remain displaced.
Since October 2023, Israeli air and ground attacks have claimed more than 46,000 Palestinian lives.
Will this ceasefire last, or will it be just a brief pause in a protracted conflict?
