❓WHAT HAPPENED: The Israeli military announced a partial withdrawal of troops from parts of Gaza following the implementation of a ceasefire agreement with Hamas.
👤WHO WAS INVOLVED: The Israel Defense Forces (IDF), Hamas, U.S. President Donald J. Trump, and U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff.
📍WHEN & WHERE: The ceasefire took effect on Friday morning, with troop withdrawals observed in Gaza City and Khan Younis.
💬KEY QUOTE: The IDF stated that troops “began positioning themselves along the updated deployment lines” and will continue to address immediate threats.
🎯IMPACT: Thousands of Palestinians have begun returning to northern Gaza as the ceasefire takes effect.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have confirmed a partial withdrawal of troops from parts of Gaza following the implementation of a ceasefire agreement with Hamas. The ceasefire, which began on Friday morning, was phase one of a deal brokered by U.S. President Donald J. Trump to facilitate the return of hostages and the release of prisoners, with the eventual aim of disarming Hamas and rebuilding Gaza.
Under the agreement, Hamas has until Monday to release all Israeli hostages, including 20 believed to be alive and up to 28 hostages’ remains. In return, Israel is expected to release approximately 250 Palestinian prisoners and allow 600 aid trucks daily into Gaza to address the humanitarian crisis.
The IDF stated that troops “began positioning themselves along the updated deployment lines” and will continue to address immediate threats. U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff confirmed that the IDF had completed the first phase of withdrawal to the “yellow line,” as outlined in a White House map.
Thousands of Palestinians have been seen traveling north, many on foot, carrying their remaining belongings. “Even if the house is destroyed, even if it’s just rubble, we’ll go back, put up a tent, and return to our people,” said Wael Al-Najjar, one of many displaced residents.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized the ongoing mission to disarm Hamas and demilitarize Gaza, stating that Israeli troops remain positioned to encircle Hamas. Meanwhile, families of hostages held by Hamas expressed cautious relief, with many awaiting the return of their loved ones.
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