Celebration and Trepidation in Gaza and Israel Following Ceasefire Plan Agreement
News of a ceasefire agreement reached between Israel and Hamas was met with both celebration and cautious optimism across Gaza and Israel. While the announcement sparked scenes of joy, many remain wary that the fragile deal could still unravel.
US President Donald Trump announced late Wednesday that negotiators had finalized the first phase of a ceasefire framework in Egypt’s Sharm El Sheikh. The agreement calls for the release of all hostages held by Hamas and the withdrawal of Israeli forces to an agreed line.
A Qatari official confirmed that the plan aims to end the war, secure the release of hostages and prisoners, and allow humanitarian aid to enter Gaza. Still, uncertainty looms over key details such as Hamas’s disarmament and the future governance of the territory.
Hostage Families Celebrate Amid Lingering Doubts
Crowds filled Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square in celebration as families of those still held in Gaza expressed relief mixed with anxiety. “Our hearts are filled with joy, I can’t even know how to hold it in,” said local resident Hillel Mayer.
Former hostages and their relatives embraced, cheered, and thanked Trump for his role in the deal. Video shared by the Hostages Families Forum showed Trump on a call with families in Washington, assuring them their loved ones would return home soon.
Yet, amid the jubilation, many families tempered their excitement with caution. “Until they’re getting on the Red Cross vehicle, and really meeting IDF soldiers, we must continue to pray,” said former hostage Eliya Cohen.
Rare Hope in Gaza’s Devastated Landscape
In Khan Younis, Gaza residents gathered near Nasser Hospital to celebrate the long-awaited announcement, clapping and singing in the early hours of the morning. “These are historic moments,” said Khaled Shaat, a local resident. “After two years of killing and genocide, we hope this ends the suffering.”
Despite the celebrations, Gaza’s humanitarian crisis remains dire. The war has claimed over 67,000 lives, mostly women and children, according to Gaza’s health ministry. The region continues to face extreme shortages of food, medicine, and shelter.
The ceasefire announcement follows an independent UN inquiry that concluded Israel had committed genocide in Gaza—an accusation Israel strongly denies. Whether this agreement will bring lasting peace or another short-lived pause remains uncertain.
