The Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), the second largest armed group in Gaza, says the ceasefire agreement and prisoner exchange are not a “gift from anyone”, but, at the same time, does not deny international efforts in securing the deal.

“We emphasise the enormous sacrifices made by our Palestinian people, and the courage and bravery of its fighters on the ground who confronted the enemy forces and showed unprecedented courage in combat,” the PIJ said in a statement.

“In these historic moments, our people will not forget their great martyrs who played the most important role in keeping the resistance steadfast,” it added.