PEOLE celebrated in the streets of Deir al-Balah in the Gaza Strip on Wednesday following news of an expected ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
“All citizens feel relieved and happy with the news of the ceasefire,” Deir Al Balah resident Abu Iyad Abu Obeid told the AP.
“We hope to return to our homes, villages and cities as soon as possible.”
Netanyahu’s office said in a statement that it hoped “details will be finalized tonight.” Any agreement needs to be approved by Netanyahu’s Cabinet.
Once official, the deal is expected to deliver an initial six-week halt to fighting that is to be accompanied by the opening of negotiations on ending the war altogether.
Over six weeks, 33 of the nearly 100 hostages are to be reunited with their loved ones after months in in captivity with no contact with the outside world, though it’s unclear if all are alive.
The Israel Hamas-war has killed more than 46,000 Palestinians in Gaza, according to health authorities there.
The Health Ministry does not distinguish between fighters and civilians but says women and children make up more than half the fatalities.
Image (Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu says talks to cease fire are on going).
