Summary of this article
A historic ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has ended nearly two years of intense conflict that began in October 2023, which resulted in over 67,000 Palestinian deaths and widespread destruction in Gaza.
Hamas has begun releasing Israeli hostages, with 20 expected to be freed in exchange for around 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. Thousands of Palestinians are returning to Gaza City after fleeing the Israeli offensive, facing long and difficult journeys amid devastation.
World leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump, have welcomed the ceasefire, with a peace summit planned in Sharm el-Sheikh to finalize a lasting framework. The success of the truce depends on disarmament, governance in Gaza, and international support for reconstruction and long-term stabilit