Months of tedious talks over a ceasefire and hostage deal in Gaza – negotiations that required officials from an outgoing and incoming presidential administration to put aside their fundamental differences – culminated in an intense late-night push for an agreement that finally came to fruition on Wednesday.

Biden confirmed the ceasefire agreement in a speech on Wednesday afternoon, noting that it was his administration who negotiated the deal but it will be Trump’s administration that ensures it is implemented. The agreement comes after a 15-month-war wreaked havoc across Israel and Gaza, resulting in thousands of deaths.

They applaud the potential freeing of loved ones after 15 months of captivity in Gaza but remain anxious that gradual releases could leave some in Hamas hands.