The Palestinian resistance movement reaffirmed its adherence to the newly reached ceasefire agreement, declaring it a victory born of Palestinian endurance and the steadfastness of armed resistance, as weary residents across the Gaza Strip cautiously celebrated the first signs of calm after months of relentless Israeli aggression.
The resistance group described the agreement as “the result of the resilience of our people and the steadfastness of their resistance.”
Hamas said Israel failed to retrieve its captives through force, despite overwhelming military superiority and advanced intelligence, and could have secured their release months earlier had it not chosen to prolong the bloodshed.
Under the first phase of the deal, Hamas announced the release of 20 Israeli captives, whose names were later confirmed by Israeli Army Radio.
Across Gaza, people poured into the streets as the ceasefire took hold, their faces reflecting both joy and disbelief after months of devastation inflicted by Israeli bombardment.
“The Palestinian people came out today to show their love for life and attachment to their homeland,” said Mohammad Abu Shaar, a displaced resident from Rafah.
He added that despite the Israeli regime’s campaign of forced displacement and “acts of genocide and ethnic cleansing,” Palestinians remain determined to stay on their land.
The announcement of the truce’s first phase revived hope for reconstruction and humanitarian relief, with residents clinging to the prospect of rebuilding after two years of destruction.
The deal halts Israeli airstrikes and initiates the monitored exchange of prisoners and captives under international and popular supervision.
In Gaza City, families gathered amid the rubble to celebrate survival.
“We never believed this day would come,” said Hamad Jalal, another displaced resident.
“Until today, every moment felt like waiting for death. Now, even if this ceasefire is temporary, at least for one day, we are safe.”
In hospitals and refugee camps, scenes of grief mingled with cautious smiles.
A mother who lost her children wept silently as she watched others rejoice.
Young men raised flags atop the ruins of their homes, vowing that the resistance of Gaza would not fade.
For many in Gaza, this pause in Israel’s onslaught is not merely political—it is the fragile breath of a nation that refused to surrender.