After prolonged negotiations and multiple delays, a long-anticipated ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has finally come into effect in Gaza. The truce, brokered by Qatar with support from the United States and Egypt, was initially scheduled to begin at 8:30 AM local time. However, a delay in Hamas providing the list of hostages caused it to be postponed by nearly three hours, ultimately taking effect at 11:15 AM.
The ceasefire has brought a momentary reprieve to Gaza, where residents have endured relentless bombardment for months. Following its enforcement, people cautiously emerged from shelters to assess the destruction in their communities. Many displaced families have begun returning to their homes, hoping for stability after weeks of violence.
In the hours leading up to the ceasefire, Israeli forces launched airstrikes on Gaza, continuing military operations until the last possible moment. The Israeli military warned that it would not honor the ceasefire unless Hamas complied with all conditions. Hamas, in turn, attributed the delay in submitting the hostage list to "technical difficulties" but reaffirmed its commitment to the agreement.
The truce includes a hostage exchange arrangement under which Hamas is set to release several Israeli captives. In return, Israel is expected to free Palestinian detainees. Initial reports confirm that Hamas has agreed to release three hostages: Romi Gonen, 24, Emily Damari, 28, and Doron Shanbar Khair, 31.
This agreement follows days of intense diplomatic efforts, including 96 hours of continuous discussions in Qatar. High-level representatives from the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar played a key role in facilitating negotiations between the two sides, striving to establish a framework for de-escalation.
Since the war began on October 7, 2023, Gaza’s Health Ministry has reported more than 46,000 fatalities. However, independent assessments and Western media sources suggest the actual death toll may be significantly higher. While the ceasefire marks a temporary halt in hostilities, concerns remain about its longevity and whether it can lead to a more permanent resolution.
For now, Gaza’s residents can experience a brief respite, but uncertainty remains. The coming days will determine whether this fragile truce can serve as a foundation for lasting peace or merely a pause before further escalation.