Israelis and Palestinians rejoiced on Thursday after a ceasefire and hostage deal was announced under the first phase of U.S. President Donald Trump's initiative to end the war in Gaza.

The enemies both publicly endorsed the deal and had been expected to sign it around noon in the Egyptian beach resort of Sharm el-Sheikh, though there was no immediate official confirmation that the signing had taken place.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said the ceasefire would take effect once ratified by the Israeli government, which would convene after a security cabinet meeting scheduled for 5:00 p.m.