Tel Aviv: After a deal was reached between Israel and militant group Hamas for a ceasefire and the release of prisoners, Palestinian journalist Anas Al-Sharif celebrated the much-awaited news in a unique style. He removed his helmet and bulletproof press vest. Notably, journalists reporting in war zones wear this armour for their safety.
The video of the incident is doing rounds on social media. Al-Sharif works for Al Jazeera. In the video, the Al Jazeera journalist could be seen removing his helmet and bullet-proof vest while reporting about the ceasefire.
"Now, I can finally take off this helmet that has exhausted me throughout this period. And also, this vest, which became a part of my body over this long time, always accompanying me," the journalist could be heard saying on camera.
"Now, we announce here, from this place in the middle of Gaza City, this ceasefire announcement for the people and residents of the Gaza Strip who have been subjected to a war of genocide, endured bombings and forcible displacement from this place here where I stand," he reported he added.
Here's The Video:
A man behind the Al-Sharif lifted him on his shoulders as the journalist reported about the ceasefire. Reports claimed that Al-Sharif had been reported from Gaza since October 7, 2023, the day when Hamas attacked Israel.
However, the next day, Al-Shariff again wore the protective gear as he claimed that Israeli forces intensified their attack on several targets in Gaza.
Meanwhile, on Friday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed that the deal had been reached to release hostages held in Gaza and to implement a ceasefire. Netanyahu's office said that the Israeli prime minister had convened a security cabinet meeting for Friday to hold a vote on the deal, The Times of Israel. The deal marks a significant step toward ending the 15-month-long conflict. Dozens of hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel will be released as part of the deal.