In a landmark moment, Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas have reached a ceasefire agreement, bringing an end to a brutal 15-month conflict. Qatar's Prime Minister confirmed that the truce would take effect on Sunday, with Hamas set to release 33 Israeli hostages as part of the initial phase, AFP reported.

The ceasefire follows prolonged negotiations mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States. Talks faced multiple roadblocks, including last-minute disputes over security arrangements along Gaza's border with Egypt. A Qatari official, speaking anonymously, confirmed that the impasse was resolved after intensive back-and-forth between the delegations.

The war began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on Israel, killing over 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages, according to Israeli sources. Israel's military responded with a relentless campaign in Gaza, resulting in the deaths of over 46,700 Palestinians, mostly civilians, according to Gaza's health ministry. The violence displaced millions and left much of Gaza in ruins.

Despite ongoing ceasefire negotiations, Israeli airstrikes continued, targeting approximately 50 sites in Gaza over the past 24 hours. At least 13 Palestinians, including seven in a school sheltering displaced families, were killed, medical sources reported.

The ceasefire deal represents hope for de-escalation but underscores the human toll of the conflict. With 94 hostages still held by Hamas and many Gaza residents struggling in dire conditions, rebuilding trust and stability remains a daunting challenge.