After Israel’s refusal to withdraw its security forces from the mosque compound, Hamas launches a sustained rocket barrage from Gaza into Israel. In retaliation, Israel responds with airstrikes on Gaza. This violent conflict persists for 11 days, resulting in the loss of a minimum of 250 lives in Gaza and 13 in Israel.

Mediators say Israel and Hamas have agreed to a pause in fighting in Gaza and to begin releasing the hostages held there.

Marking an end to more than 15 months of deadly conflict, Israel and Hamas reached a ceasefire deal on Wednesday.

Palestinian armed group Hamas and Israel reached a deal for a ceasefire in Gaza that mediators said would take effect on Sunday. The agreement provides for the release of Israeli

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the country’s security cabinet would meet to approve the deal on Friday.

Hope and mourning are among the mix of emotions brought on by the news of a ceasefire deal between Hamas and Israel. In the first phase of the deal – which is set to begin on Sunday – Hamas and Israel agreed to halt fighting in Gaza and to the release of Israeli hostages and Palestinians prisoners.

Qatar’s prime minister on Wednesday announced a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, pausing the devastating 15-month war in Gaza and clearing the way for dozens of Israeli hostages to go home.

Comments from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu put the deal back on track after he accused Hamas of reneging on the original agreement.