Gaza Ceasefire Takes Effect, Thousands of Palestinians Return Home

A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has finally come into effect after a three-hour delay marked by fresh airstrikes that killed at least 19 Palestinians. Despite the setback, thousands of displaced Palestinians have begun returning to the ruins of their homes, hopeful for some respite after months of relentless violence.

The ceasefire agreement includes a temporary pause in fighting and the release of three Israeli captives and about 90 Palestinian prisoners on its first day. Israel confirmed receiving the names of the captives, paving the way for the deal’s implementation. Gaza’s skies, once filled with drones and artillery, now offer a glimmer of hope for the nearly 47,000 Palestinians who have lost their lives since October 2023.

Qatar’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Majed al-Ansari, attributed the delay to logistical challenges in exchanging names of captives and prisoners. Speaking to Al Jazeera, he expressed confidence that the exchange process would proceed smoothly, crediting the mediators and the involvement of the US for bringing the deal to fruition.

The ceasefire’s announcement has sparked mixed emotions, with many celebrating a temporary reprieve while others mourn the immense loss of life. Among the victims of Israel’s attacks are journalists like Wael Dahdouh, Al Jazeera’s Gaza bureau chief, who lost his wife and children during the conflict.

Reflecting on the ceasefire, Dahdouh remarked, “After 15 months of death and destruction, this moment of calm offers hope that the truce may hold and life can begin anew for those of us left behind.”