Ceasefire Holds: Gazans Return Home as Hope Returns to War-Torn Strips

By Ababil Islamic News — Updated: Today

After years of brutal conflict, a newly brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has taken effect, prompting thousands of displaced Palestinians to return to the ruins of their homes. The agreement includes phased Israeli withdrawals, hostage exchanges, and a significant boost in humanitarian aid flows into Gaza. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

🔸 Return to Ruins

As the ceasefire took hold, long-displaced Gazans began streaming back north toward their former neighborhoods by foot, cart, and car. Many traveled across devastated terrain, passing through rubble-strewn streets and collapsed infrastructure. “It is an indescribable feeling,” said Nabila Basal, returning with her wounded daughter. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Israeli troops have begun partial pullback operations in line with the agreement. But even as people return, much of Gaza lies in ruins. Some homes are entirely destroyed; others are uninhabitable. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

📜 Key Terms of the Ceasefire

The first phase of the deal includes:

• A halt to hostilities as of a designated start time. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
• Israeli troop redeployment to agreed lines inside Gaza. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
• Release of 48 hostages held in Gaza, including 20 known to be alive. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
• Reciprocal release of over 2,000 Palestinian prisoners, along with bodies of fighters. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
• Opening of humanitarian corridors for food, medical supplies, fuel, and reconstruction aid. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
• Coordination with Egypt on cross-border movement via Rafah, with oversight and security arrangements. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}

🌍 Global Reaction and UN Role

The United Nations has called the agreement a major opportunity for relief and renewal. UN Secretary-General António Guterres described it as a step toward Palestinian self-determination and urged parties to seize this chance. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

Meanwhile, the UN has pledged to surge aid into Gaza over the next 60 days, aiming to deliver food, medical supplies, shelter, and fuel to millions in desperate need. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}

✨ Relief & Skepticism

The ceasefire has brought much-needed relief, but caution is widespread. Skeptics point out that past deals have collapsed over disputes about disarmament, security guarantees, and political control of Gaza. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}

Many wonder whether the truce can evolve into a lasting peace or will end up another fragile pause. The success will hinge on implementation, oversight, and addressing the root political issues. :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}

📌 What Comes Next

Global leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump, are slated to convene in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, at a summit to finalize the broader peace roadmap. :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}

Meanwhile, efforts are underway to ensure safe and efficient delivery of humanitarian relief, monitor compliance, and plan the reconstruction of Gaza’s devastated infrastructure. :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}

Among Palestinians and others in the Muslim world, this ceasefire is being viewed as a moment of cautious hope — a possible turning point in a conflict that has left deep wounds. But as the dust settles, only time will tell whether peace endures.

---

🌐 Related news:

• UN aims to surge aid, medical supplies into Gaza once ceasefire starts
• New Italian bill targets Islamic face coverings and religious funding
• Egypt to convene global leaders including Trump in Sharm el-Sheikh on Gaza war agreement
• International journalists urge Israel to allow reporters into Gaza after ceasefire deal

Sources: Reuters, FT, AP, The Guardian | Compiled & Edited by: ababilislamicnews.blogspot.com