**Israel and Hamas Agree to Ceasefire**
A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has taken effect in Gaza. The agreement comes after a long period of fighting that killed over 1,200 people in Israel and more than 47,000 Palestinians.
**Losses on Both Sides**
According to the Hamas-run health ministry, 47,100 Palestinians have been killed during the conflict. In Israel, about 1,200 people lost their lives. The Israeli military said that it had “severely damaged” Hamas’s military wing and killed most of its leadership.
**IDF Inquiry Promised**
Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz has promised a thorough inquiry into the events leading up to the war. He said that the investigation will be transparent, but will only look at the Israeli military’s actions.
**Next Steps**
The ceasefire is the first stage of a three-part deal. Hamas handed over three women on Sunday and plans to release four more on Saturday. Israel must now withdraw its forces from densely populated areas of Gaza and allow aid into the territory. The second phase should start within two weeks, with negotiations focused on releasing remaining hostages and withdrawing Israeli troops.
**Uncertainty Remains**
There is concern among Palestinians in Gaza and the families of the hostages that the deal may not hold. US President Donald Trump has expressed doubts about whether all three stages will be implemented. If negotiations fail, Israel says it has US backing to return to fighting.