Israel and Hamas have finally agreed to a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages after 15 months of bloody war that has claimed thousands of lives.
Qatar's Prime Minister, one of the key figures in the negotiations, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul Rahman Al Thani, said the agreement would enter into force on Sunday, while it is still awaiting approval by the Israeli cabinet.
The Israeli prime minister's office said earlier that there were "some unresolved clauses" but hoped that details could be finalized in the coming hours.
Meanwhile, following this long-awaited news, Palestinians in Gaza and families of Israeli hostages celebrated in the main squares of several cities.
Under the agreement, Israeli forces will withdraw from populated areas of Gaza, while displaced Palestinians will be allowed to begin returning to their homes. The way will also be opened for the passage of much-needed aid in these difficult times for Gaza.
Negotiations for the second phase, which should include the release of the remaining hostages, a full withdrawal of Israeli troops and a "sustainable calm", will begin on the 16th day of the ceasefire.
The third and final phase involves rebuilding Gaza, something that could take years, and the return of the remaining bodies of the hostages.
The Israeli military launched a campaign to destroy Hamas in response to the group's unprecedented attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, in which about 1,200 people were killed and 251 others were taken hostage.
More than 46,700 people have been killed in Gaza since then, according to the Hamas-run health ministry, while most of the population of 2.3 million has been displaced. (A2 Televizion)