After two years of devastating conflict, a long-awaited ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has finally been announced under the first phase of U.S. President Donald Trump’s peace initiative. The agreement, expected to be signed in Egypt’s Sharm el-Sheikh, marks a major diplomatic breakthrough aiming to end the bloodshed that has displaced over two million Palestinians and left tens of thousands dead. As part of the deal, Israeli hostages may be released as early as Saturday, with Israeli troops beginning their withdrawal from Gaza within 24 hours.

Across Israel and Gaza, celebrations erupted following the announcement. In Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square, families of captives rejoiced with tears and cheers, while in Gaza, residents filled the shattered streets in relief, praying that this ceasefire would finally bring peace. “All of the Gaza Strip is happy,” said a local resident, as people embraced in the aftermath of relentless bombardment. However, despite the ceasefire, Israeli strikes reportedly continued overnight in some northern Gaza neighborhoods, prompting warnings from the Israeli army that the area remains unsafe.

President Trump hailed the development as “a strong and everlasting peace,” while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called it a “diplomatic and moral victory.” The ceasefire is part of Trump’s 20-point peace framework, which also proposes an international committee — including former British Prime Minister Tony Blair — to oversee Gaza’s post-war administration. Yet, uncertainty lingers over the future governance of Gaza and Hamas’s disarmament, leaving many wondering whether this fragile peace can truly hold.