Israel accepted the Egyptian proposal for an open-ended Gaza ceasefire with Palestinian authorities which took place at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, a senior Israeli official told Reuters.

Palestine President Mahmoud Abbas said that there will be a complete stop in fighting after both parties responded to the comprehensive proposal of Egyptian mediators. As part of the agreement, Israel and Egypt will open all border crossings to bring international humanitarian relief to civilians on both sides of the borders and allow construction materials to enter the Gaza Strip, 

Like Us on Facebook

President Abbas conveyed his gratitude towards Egypt, Qatar and U.S. secretary of state John Kerry for their efforts and important roles to secure a Gaza ceasefire. He also declared that they will consult international community and friends to have a clear negotiation to avoid another conflict.

Hamas spokesman Sami Abu Zuhri also expressed his appreciation to the citizens of Gaza who sacrificed their homes, family and money in the war after he declared their victory in achieving their goals at the press conference in Gaza’s Shifa hospital, reports said.

However, based on some sources, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has not yet released a statement on the ceasefire. But Israeli government spokesman Mark Regev said the Israeli authorities hope the ceasefire will last.

Further indirect talks will continue within the month to resolve more complex issues between the two parties, including Hamas’ demands for Gaza airport and seaport, release of Palestinian prisoners and Israel’s appeal to disarm the militant groups, Egypt's Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

In celebration of the long-term truce, gunfire rang and fireworks flared up through the Gaza Strip as thousands of people gathered on the streets, some reports confirmed.

TagsGaza, border, Hamas, ceasefire, war, Israel