Thousands of Palestinians have been celebrated in Gaza at news of a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.

The longterm truce was brokered by Egypt on Tuesday.

The exact details of the deal which both sides are claiming as a victory are not clear but it’s understood there will be some opening of Gaza’s crossings with Israel and Egypt, an easing of the blockade and an extension of the fishing limit off the coast of the strip.

A second stage will begin in a month with discussions about a port and airport for Gaza and Israel’s demand that Hamas disarm.

Hamas spokesperson Sami Abu Zuhri said: “Today we say to the Israeli population, now that the ceasefire has come into effetc, you can return to your homes, and it’s we who make this possible for you, not Netanyahu.”

Israeli spokesperson Mark Regev claimed the terms of the ceasefire were the same as one offered a month ago, although Hamas disputes this.

“Why is it that today Hamas accepted the very same Egyptian framework that it rejected a month ago? Ultimately so much bloodshed could have been avoided.”

The seven week conflict has left more than 2000 Palestinians dead, most of them civilians including more than 500 children. 64 Israeli soldiers have been killed, along with three Israeli civilians and a Thai national.