A fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas held for the third consecutive day on Sunday, raising hopes for lasting calm as both sides prepare for a major prisoner and hostage exchange. The truce comes ahead of US President Donald Trump’s scheduled visit to Israel and his address to the Knesset on Monday.
Thousands of Palestinians have begun returning north to Gaza City, which was the center of Israeli operations for the past two months. Many expressed cautious optimism that the ceasefire could mark the end of the prolonged war. “There is joy among the people, but it comes with exhaustion after years of devastation,” said Abdou Abu Seada.
Under the agreement mediated by the United States, Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, Hamas is set to release the remaining hostages taken during its October 7, 2023 attack on Israel. In return, Israel will free hundreds of Palestinian prisoners and detainees. The Israeli Prison Service has already transferred several prisoners ahead of the exchange, while the Ministry of Justice released a list of 250 Palestinians to be freed under the deal.
Israel is also expected to release 1,700 detainees held in Gaza and 22 minors, as well as hand over the bodies of 360 militants. The agreement excludes senior Hamas commanders and high-profile figures like Marwan Barghouti and Ahmed Saadat.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that once all hostages are returned, the military will focus on dismantling Hamas’ network of underground tunnels in Gaza.
As residents return to the ruins of northern Gaza, many describe overwhelming destruction. “We are happy to come back, but the sight is heartbreaking,” said Rami Mohammad-Ali, who walked 15 kilometers from Deir al-Balah with his son. Aid groups estimate that around 300,000 tents will be required to shelter nearly 1.5 million displaced Gazans.
