Great Omari Mosque reopens - Gaza's centuries-old landmark welcomes worshippers after recovery efforts

"The Great Omari Mosque has reopened its doors to worshippers, welcoming dozens for Friday prayers for the first time since its reconstruction during the ceasefire in Gaza. Footage shows worshippers arriving at the mosque, listening to the Friday sermon and performing prayers inside the historic site. "I'm delighted to see how happy people are about the reopening of this ancient mosque. [...] This place has witnessed Islam throughout its history and is proof of its antiquity," said Mohammed Khalf, a local. "May Almighty God bless us by ending this crisis, allowing people to continue praying in this mosque," added Islam Ahmed, another worshipper. The Great Omari Mosque is the oldest mosque in Gaza, covering an area of approximately 1,600 square metres. Hamas has accused Israel of bombing the mosque during the war, while Israeli authorities have not commented on the allegations. According to Palestinian media, a group of young volunteers cleaned the mosque's northern courtyard, where prayers were held. Worshippers were able to access the mosque through its northern gate - the only one of six that was not destroyed during the war. Israel and Hamas signed a peace agreement that came into effect on October 10 as part of the 20-point 'Trump Plan'. The deal includes an immediate cessation of hostilities, the release of all hostages - both living and deceased - and the entry of humanitarian aid"