Israel and Hamas Agree to Temporary Ceasefire

A ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, facilitated by the US and Qatar, is set to begin on Sunday, promising 42 days of calm amidst a backdrop of intense violence that has claimed thousands of lives. The deal includes the exchange of 33 Israeli hostages for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, although concerns remain over Hamas' commitment to the terms, which has led to a last-minute crisis. As final approvals are awaited from the Israeli government, civilians in Gaza express anxiety, fearing that ongoing airstrikes could undermine the ceasefire. While the truce is seen as a necessary first step towards peace, observers caution that it does not resolve the deeper issues fueling the conflict. The situation remains precarious, with reports indicating that Israeli forces continue to conduct airstrikes ahead of the ceasefire. The agreement has sparked mixed emotions, with relief in Gaza tempered by skepticism over its longevity and effectiveness in addressing the underlying tensions.