Israelis Celebrate Return of Hostages as Ceasefire Takes Hold
Israeli citizens rejoiced on Sunday evening as the first wave of hostages held in the Gaza Strip returned home, hours after a long-anticipated ceasefire between Israel and Hamas went into effect. The ceasefire ended 15 months of relentless conflict that left more than 46,800 Palestinians dead in Gaza, according to local health officials, and devastated much of the enclave.
President Joe Biden hailed the safe return of three female hostages and credited the ceasefire to “the pressure Israel put on Hamas backed by the United States.” He said the ceasefire was a positive step towards a permanent end to the fighting.
Hostages Released, Humanitarian Aid Begins to Flow into Gaza
The three released hostages, Doron Steinbrecher, Emily Damari, and Romi Gonen, were abducted in terror attacks led by Hamas on October 7, 2023. They were reunited with their families in Israel and underwent medical examinations.
Meanwhile, hundreds of aid trucks carrying food, medicine, and other essential supplies began entering Gaza, where a severe humanitarian crisis has unfolded. The Israeli offensive had destroyed or damaged most buildings in the enclave and displaced almost all of its 2 million residents.
Palestinian Families Return Home, Celebrate Fragile Truce
With the ceasefire in place, displaced Palestinians cautiously began returning to their homes in Gaza to assess the damage. Some celebrated in the streets, marking the beginning of the fragile truce.
The ceasefire came after an hours-long delay during which at least 19 people were killed in Gaza as Israeli forces continued to attack parts of the enclave before the truce came into effect.
Prisoner Exchange as Part of Ceasefire Agreement
As part of the ceasefire agreement, Israel released a group of 90 Palestinian prisoners and detainees, including children and women. For every hostage released, 30 Palestinian prisoners will be freed, and for every soldier released, 50 prisoners will be freed.
Four additional living hostages are expected to be released in seven days, while the release of the remaining hostages is expected to take place in the second phase of the ceasefire deal.
Renewed Hope for Conflict Resolution
The ceasefire has brought a glimmer of hope for a permanent end to the conflict between Israel and Hamas. Negotiations over a second stage of the ceasefire, aimed at a long-term resolution, are expected to begin by the 16th day of the first phase.
The ceasefire offers a chance for relief and closure to families of hostages and Palestinian detainees, as well as a reprieve from the violence and humanitarian crisis that has ravaged both sides.
