Web Desk: A US-brokered ceasefire agreement aimed at ending the war in Gaza officially took effect on Thursday, according to Egyptian media reports. The deal, signed in Sharm el-Sheikh, was scheduled to begin at 0900 GMT.
However, Israeli media offered a conflicting timeline, stating that the ceasefire would only be implemented after formal ratification by the Israeli cabinet later in the evening. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office clarified that the 72-hour countdown would commence only after cabinet approval, expected Thursday night.
Israeli MP Bezalel Smotrich has voiced opposition to the deal, adding a layer of political tension ahead of the cabinet meeting.
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi hailed the agreement as a “historic moment,” marking the triumph of peace over war after two years of suffering in Gaza. Despite the announcement, Israeli airstrikes continued, with smoke rising over Gaza as seen from the border city of Sderot.
Earlier, US President Donald Trump confirmed that Israel and Hamas had agreed to the first phase of his peace plan, which includes a ceasefire and a hostage exchange. Speaking on Fox News’ Hannity, Trump said hostages held in Gaza would likely be released on Monday.
Scenes of Joy in Gaza and Israel
News of the agreement sparked celebrations in both Gaza and Israel. In Gaza, where over two million residents have been displaced, people took to the streets in joy despite ongoing bombardment. “Thank God for the ceasefire, the end of bloodshed and killing,” said Abdul Majeed Abd Rabbo in Khan Younis.
In Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square, families of Israeli captives rejoiced. Einav Zaugauker, whose son Matan is among the hostages, expressed overwhelming relief: “I can’t breathe… Just tell him that I love him.”
The agreement marks the beginning of a potentially transformative phase in the region, with hopes pinned on the successful implementation of the ceasefire and the return of hostages. Whether this breakthrough leads to lasting peace remains to be seen.
