Ceasefire Announced in Gaza Strip
Early Friday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Cabinet confirmed that a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip has taken effect following the approval of the first phase of President Trump’s 20-point peace plan.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated in an online post that they have begun positioning themselves along the newly defined deployment line. This shift is part of preparations for the ceasefire agreement and the return of hostages.
Nevertheless, IDF soldiers stationed in the Southern Command will remain vigilant in the area and continue to address any immediate threats.
An anonymous Israeli security official indicated that Israel would retain control over approximately 50% of the Gaza Strip in these adjusted positions.
This withdrawal decision followed several days of discussions involving leaders from the United States, Egypt, and Qatar, who were working toward a peace agreement acceptable to both Israel and Hamas. Last month, President Trump introduced the 20-point peace plan aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict.
On Friday, Middle East Special Envoy Steve Witkoff reported that CENTCOM confirmed the IDF had completed its initial withdrawal phase by noon local time.
Witkoff further noted, “The 72-hour period for hostage release has begun,” as detailed in a statement on the social platform X.
The terms of the agreement stipulate that Israel will release 2,000 prisoners. All women and children currently held by Israel will also be set free, according to various reports.
This release includes 250 Palestinian prisoners of war, 1,722 Gazans detained during the conflict who were not associated with the October 7 Hamas attack, as well as 22 minors.
In return, Hamas is expected to release all remaining hostages, whether alive or deceased, as part of the exchange. President Trump, currently en route to the Middle East to oversee the deal, indicated that these events could unfold by Monday or Tuesday.
According to Gazan officials, Israel carried out attacks in the region early Friday; however, reports suggest that these bombings have decreased since then.
Palestinian Legislative Council member Khalil al-Khaiya declared in a televised address, “Today we announce that we have reached an agreement to end war and aggression against our people.”
