**Gaza Celebrates Ceasefire After 15-Month War**
Millions of Palestinians in Gaza are celebrating a ceasefire agreement after 15 months of war. The deal was made between Israel and Hamas, with mediation from the US and Qatar.
**Relief and Joy**
People in Gaza are relieved and happy, but also sad as they mourn their loved ones who were killed. Many have been displaced and are now planning to return home. Sanabel, a 17-year-old girl, said she was “finally” happy to hear the news about the ceasefire.
**Aid Allowed In**
As part of the agreement, Israeli forces will withdraw from populated areas in Gaza, allowing Palestinians to return to their homes. Hundreds of aid lorries are being allowed into the territory each day.
**Sadness and Rebuilding**
Gazans are also mourning their loved ones who were killed and beginning to rebuild the territory after a year-long devastation. Ahmed Dahman said he would “give his father a proper burial” when the ceasefire began, as his father was killed by an air strike last year.
**Phases of Ceasefire Agreement**
The agreement will take effect on January 19th in the first phase. Israeli forces will withdraw from populated areas, and Palestinians who have been displaced can return to their homes. In the second phase, the remaining hostages should be released, and the Israeli troops should withdraw in full.
**A Long Road Ahead**
Rebuilding Gaza could take many years, and the return of all remaining hostages’ remains is also a priority. Iman Al-Qouqa described it as a “day of happiness and sorrow” and said that they must “cry long and hard because of what we have all lost”.
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