‘Joy beyond measure’: Celebrations in Gaza as long-awaited ceasefire begins
Al Jazeera
Palestinians in Gaza hail ceasefire as thousands start preparations to return home following 15 months of war.
Celebrations have erupted across the Gaza Strip after a much-awaited ceasefire came into effect following 15 months of war that turned much of the coastal Palestinian enclave to rubble.
The ceasefire came into effect at 11:15am local time (09:15 GMT) on Sunday after Hamas handed over a list of three female captives to be released as part of the deal to Israel through mediators.
“My joy is beyond measure,” said Gaza resident Om Salah.
“From the moment they announced the ceasefire, I quickly packed all my things because I am ready to go to Gaza City. My children are extremely happy to go and see our families, relatives and our lands,” she told Al Jazeera.
“Here, we are always scared and worried, but back home we will be very happy, and joy will come back to our lives .”