For the first time in two years, Gaza woke to something close to silence. No airstrikes, no sirens, only the hum of generators and distant shouts of disbelief. Across the border in Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square, families held photos of their sons and daughters and chanted “Thank you, America.” In Khan Younis, vendors reopened stalls among the ruins and children chased kites stitched from old plastic bags. For a day, life tilted toward hope.
The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas — brokered by U.S. President Donald Trump after marathon talks with Qatar, Egypt and Turkey — promises to release hostages and prisoners on both sides. Hamas will free 48 captives; Israel will release nearly 1,900 Palestinians and withdraw troops from much of Gaza. “A strong and lasting peace,” Trump called it. Netanyahu echoed him: “A great day for Israel.”
The words sound rehearsed after so many false dawns. In Gaza, where more than 67,000 people have been killed since 2023, few are ready to celebrate. “Hope hurts,” a Palestinian teacher said quietly. “We’ve had too many beginnings.” Her fear is warranted: Even as the deal was signed, explosions echoed in the south.
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