Jan 15, (V7N) - On Tuesday, both Israelis and Gazans anxiously awaited a potential ceasefire agreement, with hostage families in Israel pushing for their loved ones' release and displaced Palestinians hoping to return home.

Negotiations, mediated by countries including Qatar, are reportedly nearing completion on a ceasefire and hostage-prisoner exchange. In Israel, families of hostages gathered outside the parliament and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office, urging immediate action. Gil Dickmann, whose cousin Carmel Gat was found dead in Gaza, stressed the urgency: "We must act now."

Some families met with Netanyahu, advocating for a ceasefire to secure the hostages' release. Eli Shtivi, father of former hostage Ilan Shtivi, stated, "Ending the war will bring the hostages back."

The conflict began after Hamas's October 7, 2023, attack on Israel, which killed 1,210 people and led to 251 hostages being taken. Currently, 94 hostages remain in Gaza, including 34 declared dead. Israel's military response has killed over 46,000 people in Gaza, mostly civilians, and displaced the majority of the population.

In Gaza, displaced residents like Umm Ibrahim Abu Sultan expressed hope for peace, longing to return to their homes. "It feels like we're coming back from the dead," she said. Hassan Al-Madhoun, also displaced, reflected on the deep losses endured during the war.

However, in Israel, some opposed a ceasefire. Protester Barbara Haskel argued that Hamas should release the hostages only after admitting defeat, highlighting divisions over the potential agreement.