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A fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas took effect in Gaza on Sunday, marking the first significant pause in a 15-month conflict. This six-week truce raises hopes for hostages’ release and the start of rebuilding efforts.

Celebrations erupted in Gaza even before the truce officially began at 11:15 a.m. local time, despite a last-minute three-hour delay caused by Hamas. Displaced Palestinians began returning to their homes, and Israel released the names of hostages expected to return later in the day.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that the ceasefire is temporary and Israel retains the right to resume fighting if needed.

Palestinians Return Amid Devastation

For displaced families like Majida Abu Jarad’s, the truce offers a chance to return to what remains of their homes. Forced to flee Beit Hanoun at the war’s start, her family has endured seven relocations over the past year.

The ceasefire followed intense mediation efforts by the U.S., Qatar, and Egypt. The truce allows humanitarian aid to flow into Gaza and outlines steps to de-escalate tensions.

Phase one of the agreement includes the release of 33 hostages and 737 Palestinian detainees, as well as Israel’s withdrawal to buffer zones. Thousands of Palestinians, displaced by relentless violence, will attempt to rebuild shattered lives.

Long-Term Challenges and Unresolved Questions

Gaza remains deeply scarred, with over 46,000 Palestinians killed and 90% of the population displaced. Critical infrastructure, including roads and healthcare facilities, lies in ruins.

The ceasefire, the second in 15 months, promises incremental progress through three defined phases. Negotiations for phase two, involving further hostage releases and Israeli troop withdrawals, will begin in two weeks.

Aid efforts have intensified, with 600 trucks daily expected to deliver essentials through the Rafah crossing. Yet, rebuilding Gaza’s devastated economy and infrastructure could take decades, even if the ceasefire holds.

As the world watches, the ceasefire represents both a pause in violence and a stark reminder of the immense challenges that lie ahead.