Ceasefire Sparks Celebrations in Gaza and Israel After Long War

A ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas has been announced, igniting celebrations among Palestinians and families of Israeli hostages. The deal aims to end hostilities in Gaza and facilitate the return of all Israeli hostages, both living and deceased. This breakthrough comes after two years of conflict that has resulted in significant loss of life and widespread destruction in the region.

In Gaza, where more than 2 million residents have been displaced due to Israeli military operations, joyous scenes erupted in the streets. Young men celebrated despite ongoing Israeli strikes in some areas of the enclave. “Thank God for the ceasefire, the end of bloodshed and killing,” said Abdul Majeed Abd Rabbo in Khan Younis. His sentiments echoed throughout the territory as many expressed relief and gratitude for the cessation of violence.

In Tel Aviv, families of hostages gathered in Hostages Square, where emotions ran high as they awaited news. Einav Zaugauker, mother of a hostage named Matan, shared her overwhelming joy. “I can’t breathe, I can’t breathe, I can’t explain what I’m feeling … it’s crazy,” she said, illuminated by celebratory flares. Her emotional response highlighted the profound impact of the ceasefire on families who have endured the trauma of separation.

This ceasefire agreement, reached on March 13, 2025, marks the first phase of a broader peace plan proposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump. The negotiations took place in Egypt, culminating in a deal intended to halt the ongoing violence and pave the way for a more stable future.

The mood in Gaza was one of relief and hope, with many residents expressing a desire to return to their homes, even some that have been destroyed. “I couldn’t stop laughing and crying,” said businessman Tamer Al-Burai, who was displaced from Gaza City. “We can’t wait to go back to our homes… sleep without the fear of being bombed.” His statement reflects the longing for normalcy that many in the enclave are feeling.

Despite the celebrations, there remains uncertainty about the future. Some residents voiced concerns about the ongoing Israeli military presence and the destruction that has left them without homes. Zakeya Rezik, a mother of six, described her family’s situation, stating that while she was grateful none of her children were killed, their home had been destroyed. “Even if the war is over, we will remain living in tents… until they rebuild Gaza,” she lamented.

Officials from the Hamas-run Gaza government have advised residents to refrain from returning home until further details of the agreement are clarified. The Israeli military echoed this caution, warning that parts of northern Gaza remain dangerous and should be avoided.

If implemented fully, this ceasefire has the potential to bring the two sides closer than any previous attempts to resolve the long-standing conflict, which has drawn in regional actors such as Iran and Lebanon. According to Gaza authorities, the death toll since the escalation of hostilities on October 7, 2023, has exceeded 67,000, with significant destruction across the territory.

The agreement has been met with mixed emotions. While many celebrate the end of violence, the reality on the ground remains challenging for those displaced and mourning the loss of loved ones. “These are moments long awaited by Palestinian citizens after two years of killing and genocide,” said Khaled Shaat, a resident of Khan Younis, reflecting on the broader implications of this ceasefire.

As the region absorbs the implications of this ceasefire, the hope remains that it could be a turning point toward lasting peace and reconciliation in a deeply divided area.