Half a million Palestinians are returning to Gaza City following the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The truce was because of extensive negotiations between Israel, Hamas, the USA, and Arab nations. It was orchestrated by Donald Trump. He hopes to bring peace to the region. Stage one of the peace deal involves the Israeli military leaving a large section of Gaza, and for Hamas to release 48 hostages. The ending of military action has allowed hundreds of thousands of Palestinians to go to Gaza City, most of which is in ruins after two years of the conflict.

Emotions have been running high in recent days. Alongside the release of the Israeli hostages, nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners are expected to be freed. The brother-in-law of a hostage told the New York Post: "I have yet to process it all. I am naturally happy that this nightmare may soon be over." Gaza City residents are relieved, despite the destruction, almost no infrastructure, no electricity, and no running water. One resident said: "I pray that God relieves our sorrow and distress." Another man was more cautious after having moved 20 times in the past two years.