Thousands have taken to the streets to celebrate a ceasefire agreement being reached between the terrorist organization Hamas and Israel. The announcement came after weeks of difficult negotiations in the Qatari capital Doha.
The agreement involves an initial six-week ceasefire that also involves a gradual withdrawal of Israeli troops from central Gaza and the return of Palestinians to northern Gaza.
Singing and cheering in Gaza
Hamas will release 33 hostages, including all women, children and men over the age of 50. In return, Israel will release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.
In Gaza, groups of people have gathered, hugging and taking photos with their mobile phones on Wednesday evening, AFP reports. Many sing and cheer.
Palestinians are seen celebrating in, among other places, Khan Younis in southern Gaza.
Mixed reactions in Israel
Even in Israel, many are cheering the news, reports TV4 Nyheternas’s emissande. But the reactions are mixed.
– They are relieved that some of the hostages are coming back, but there are still a large number left, it is uncertain when they could come back, says Filip Jacobson.
For many relatives, the hope of being reunited with their loved ones is now being raised.
– We want to get them all here, Arnon Cohen, who has a relative who is being held hostage, told Reuters.