Israelis and Palestinians rejoiced on Thursday after a ceasefire and hostage deal were announced under the first phase of U.S. President Donald Trump's initiative to end the war in Gaza.

The enemies were expected to sign the agreement in the Egyptian beach resort of Sharm el-Sheikh where they negotiated the biggest step yet taken to end two years of devastating warfare. The agreement on the first stage of the plan has gone into effect, Egyptian state-affiliated TV al-Qahera news reported.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said it would take effect only once ratified by the Israeli cabinet, which is meeting Thursday.

Palestinians celebrate upon hearing of the agreement on the first phase of a Gaza ceasefire in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip on Thursday. (Ramada

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