The Israeli military says it has partially withdrawn troops from parts of Gaza after a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas came into effect on Friday morning. Israeli forces reported that they had moved back to an agreed position within the territory, although they still occupy half of the Strip. Footage shows thousands of Palestinians making their way north in search of safety, following heavy bombardment.
The ceasefire agreement, approved by the Israeli government, aligns with the first phase of a deal proposed by US President Donald Trump concerning ceasefire and hostage exchanges. Ongoing negotiations aim to finalize additional phases.
As part of the agreement, Hamas must release all Israeli hostages by 12:00 local time on Monday, including approximately 20 confirmed alive and the remains of up to 28 others. In exchange, Israel is expected to release around 250 Palestinian prisoners.
Aid discussions are also central, as thousands of aid trucks are planned to deliver essential supplies to a population suffering from dire conditions marked by recent famine declarations.
Eyewitness reports indicate that Israeli troops have retraced their positions, particularly in areas near Gaza City. However, many residents are returning home to find their neighborhoods devastated and basic resources scarce. Some reports highlight the plight of families making arduous journeys on foot, carrying whatever belongings they can salvage. Amid extensive destruction, hope remains for the return of hostages, as Israeli families hold onto the promise of reunification.
Israel's military operations have been severely criticized, with accusations of human rights violations leading to comparisons with genocide as part of the ongoing conflict. While the ceasefire represents a critical moment for potential recovery and peace, significant obstacles remain in both humanitarian access and the long-term resolution of hostilities.}
The ceasefire agreement, approved by the Israeli government, aligns with the first phase of a deal proposed by US President Donald Trump concerning ceasefire and hostage exchanges. Ongoing negotiations aim to finalize additional phases.
As part of the agreement, Hamas must release all Israeli hostages by 12:00 local time on Monday, including approximately 20 confirmed alive and the remains of up to 28 others. In exchange, Israel is expected to release around 250 Palestinian prisoners.
Aid discussions are also central, as thousands of aid trucks are planned to deliver essential supplies to a population suffering from dire conditions marked by recent famine declarations.
Eyewitness reports indicate that Israeli troops have retraced their positions, particularly in areas near Gaza City. However, many residents are returning home to find their neighborhoods devastated and basic resources scarce. Some reports highlight the plight of families making arduous journeys on foot, carrying whatever belongings they can salvage. Amid extensive destruction, hope remains for the return of hostages, as Israeli families hold onto the promise of reunification.
Israel's military operations have been severely criticized, with accusations of human rights violations leading to comparisons with genocide as part of the ongoing conflict. While the ceasefire represents a critical moment for potential recovery and peace, significant obstacles remain in both humanitarian access and the long-term resolution of hostilities.}
