"Rounds of celebratory gunfire rang into the night sky and people cried tears of joy and disbelief on Thursday as news of a peace deal reached those in devastated Gaza and in Israel, where relatives have anxiously awaited the release of hostages detained since the war broke out two years ago. It's a huge day, huge joy, exclaimed Ahmed Sheheiber, a displaced Palestinian, crying over the phone from his shelter in Gaza City as he learned of the deal."
"The news could not come soon enough for families in Israel who for two years have lobbied and prayed for their relatives taken hostage by the Palestinian militant group Hamas on 7 October 2023 to be released. On the streets of Tel Aviv tearful families hugged, cheered, some popping champagne, as they learned of the news. Matan is coming home. These are the tears I prayed for, said one mother of an Israeli hostage detained in Gaza, as reported by Haaretz."
An initial phase of a 21-point peace plan was agreed by Israel and Hamas after indirect talks in Sharm El Sheikh. Celebratory gunfire, chants and tears of joy erupted across Gaza while tearful families and crowds in Tel Aviv celebrated news of hostage releases. Displaced Palestinians and residents in Gaza City, Khan Younis and Al-Mawasi expressed disbelief and relief. Families in Israel who have lobbied and prayed for two years reacted with hugs, champagne and public praise for the brokered deal. Former hostages and their friends shared emotional videos and gatherings marked the rare moments of jubilation.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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