A temporary ceasefire between Israel and Hamas took effect Friday noon, marking the first phase of a peace plan brokered by Egypt, Qatar, Türkiye, and the United States. Thousands of displaced Palestinians began returning to Gaza’s northern regions as Israeli troops withdrew from parts of Gaza City, Rafah, and Khan Younis.
The agreement includes opening five humanitarian aid crossings and a hostage-prisoner exchange, though details on numbers remain undisclosed. Observers note this initial phase could ease Gaza’s humanitarian crisis, with aid convoys preparing to deliver food and medical supplies.
Residents described mixed emotions while navigating rubble-strewn streets. "We don’t know if our homes still stand, but we have no choice," said Ahmed, a father of three from Gaza City. Analysts caution the truce’s fragility, urging sustained diplomacy to address root causes of the conflict.
Global markets showed muted reactions, though energy sector analysts are monitoring potential impacts on regional stability. The ceasefire follows three days of intensive negotiations, with mediators emphasizing the need for long-term solutions.
