Scenes of jubilation erupted in Israel and Gaza, as well as around the world, after a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas was announced.
The initial phase of the deal, announced this morning by US President Joe Biden and Qatar Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim bin Jabr Al Thani, will see dozens of hostages released by Hamas, and hundreds of Palestinian prisoners by Israel.
It could also bring an end to a devastating 15-month war.
Palestinians celebrate the announcement of the ceasefire deal in Deir al-Balah, central Gaza Strip.
In that city, there were pounding drums, clapping and celebratory gunfire. Excited men hung out the windows of honking cars.
The news also sparked scenes in Berlin, Germany, where these young Arab men celebrated.
Relatives and friends of people killed and abducted by Hamas and taken into Gaza, react to the ceasefire announcement as they take part in a demonstration in Tel Aviv, Israel.
Some Palestinians displayed mixed emotions.
“Thank God that the agreement has been reached and that we will return to our homes, to our families, and to our loved ones,” Haitham Doghmosh said.
However, he added, “It is true that our homes are gone, and our loved ones, our brothers, and our families are gone.”
A young Palestinian family celebrate the announcement of the Gaza ceasefire in Berlin.
Celebrations continue in Berlin.
The UN is racing to be ready to provide humanitarian aid to the devastated Gaza strip.
Protesters calling for the return of hostages held in the Gaza Strip celebrate in Tel Aviv.
Demonstrations and protests drew thousands of people throughout the war, accusing the Israeli government of not trying hard enough to secure the release of hostages.
Protesters in Tel Aviv embrace after the announcement.
It’s thought multiple hostages still deemed held captive by Hamas could have been killed.
Hamas initially took about 200 hostages. It’s estimated that about 100 remain in their hands, including an unknown proportion of dead ones.
The first hostages could be released as soon as Sunday, according to the details of the agreement.
Demonstrators in Tel Aviv raise torch-like candles after the ceasefire announcement.
