The streets of the Gaza Strip witnessed massive Palestinian celebrations following the announcement of Israel and Hamas agreeing on the first phase of a ceasefire plan under American and Egyptian sponsorship, amid tears of joy and zaghareed echoing throughout neighborhoods and roads.

Egyptian sources reported that “the Rafah crossing will be opened in both directions during the next phase of the agreement, paving the way for humanitarian aid to enter the Strip.”

The Israeli government is expected to hold a later meeting to approve the agreement, with the release of prisoners set to begin on Saturday or Sunday.

Despite the residents’ joy, Israeli shelling continued on some neighborhoods in Gaza City, while Palestinians expressed their happiness over the end of suffering and the alleviation of the humanitarian crisis caused by the war.

These events come after intensive diplomatic efforts led by Egypt and American mediation under the supervision of U.S. President Donald Trump, which contributed to reaching this important phase of the peace agreement.