A tense calm settled across parts of Gaza and southern Israel as the first stages of a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas began taking effect, according to live updates monitored by the BBC. After weeks of indirect talks brokered by international mediators, both sides agreed to an initial “phase one” truce aimed at halting hostilities, facilitating hostage exchanges, and allowing humanitarian convoys to enter the besieged enclave.
In Gaza City, residents cautiously emerged into streets littered with debris, some venturing out for the first time in weeks as aid trucks crossed key checkpoints. The BBC’s live reports described scenes of cautious relief, with civilians rushing to secure food, water, and medical assistance after prolonged shortages.
Israeli officials confirmed that a limited number of hostages would be released in the coming days, coordinated with humanitarian pauses and monitored by international observers. Meanwhile, Hamas leadership has signalled conditional commitment to continue the process if Israel adheres strictly to agreed terms and avoids resuming large-scale strikes.
Diplomatic sources in Cairo and Doha said negotiations remain “extremely delicate,” with the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar playing key roles in ensuring compliance. The United Nations called the truce “a desperately needed window” to prevent further civilian suffering but warned that “a pause is not yet peace” — stressing the urgency of translating this fragile breakthrough into a lasting political settlement.
