Gaza Celebrates Across the Region Following Ceasefire News

 International Desk | PNN

After continuous Israeli attacks, news of a declared ceasefire has finally brought relief and joy across Gaza. Palestinians, devastated by two years of brutal conflict, are seeing this ceasefire as the “first light of hope.”

Late Wednesday night, the announcement of the ceasefire by U.S. President Donald Trump led thousands of people onto the streets of Khan Yunus, a southern city in Gaza. They waved flags, expressed their joy, and hugged each other in celebration.

Gaza resident Abdul Majid Abdurabbo said, “Alhamdulillah, the bloodshed and massacres are coming to an end. All of Gaza is flooded with happiness today.” Another resident, Khaled Shaat, said, “This is a historic moment for Palestinians. The joy in people’s eyes on the streets is the first breath of freedom from genocide.”

Hani Mahmoud, Al Jazeera’s Gaza correspondent, noted, “This is a long-awaited time of peace for the people of Gaza. After prolonged blockade, famine, and attacks, experiencing such relief is a historic event.”

Under the first phase of the ceasefire, plans are in place to release Palestinian prisoners in exchange for detained Israeli soldiers. Meanwhile, Israeli forces are to pull back up to specified boundaries. The second phase will include full Israeli withdrawal and discussions on a new administrative structure for Gaza.

However, despite the ceasefire announcement, several airstrikes were reported in Gaza on Wednesday night, according to the local Civil Defense Department.

In Israel, the ceasefire news has elicited mixed reactions. Families of hostages gathered at Tel Aviv’s “Hostage Square,” some crying in joy. Ainavh Janzaukar, mother of Matan Janzaukar, said, “Finally, hope has returned. We just want everyone to return home safely.”

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened a cabinet meeting on Thursday to approve the first phase of the ceasefire. He stated, “This is an important day for Israel.”

For the people of Gaza, this ceasefire is not just a political agreement—it symbolizes a new chance for survival.