Hamas and Israel have come to a ceasefire, ending an 11-day conflict that resulted in many casualties and increasing tensions not only in the Middle East, but around the world. Qatar, the gulf state that has acted as a mediator between Hamas and the Jewish state, has announced that the ceasefire will officially begin on Friday, bringing an end to the hostilities that have caused immense disruption.
The truce will begin with a ceasefire set for Friday at 4pm GMT/7pm Jerusalem time, and will include the release of Israeli-held hostages by Hamas in exchange for the freedom of hundreds of Palestinians currently held in Israeli jails.
In the wake of the agreement, Hamas announced that all missiles have been fired and all military units have been instructed to stand down – a move that has been welcomed by all sides.
The agreement also promises that small-scale economic and social reforms would be put into place to help improve the lives of the people on both sides, including the construction of a seaport and airport in the Gaza Strip that would allow Palestinians there to travel more freely in and out of the region.
Israel’s government has welcomed the agreement and has stated its intention to make its citizens safer and increase its openness to diplomatic efforts with its Arab neighbors. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared the agreement a “big win” for Israel.
Meanwhile, in Gaza, residents have cautiously welcomed the truce. Though there had been some hope of a negotiated solution beforehand, the violence and destruction brought on by the conflict had left the region in a state of fear and desperation.
On the path ahead, both nations are well aware that tensions are still simmering beneath the surface and that building lasting peace will take time and cooperation. However, for now, most are relieved that the conflict has been brought to an end and that the end of hostilities could offer a glimmer of hope for a better future.