Gaza Ceasefire Takes Effect as Israeli Forces Begin Withdrawal

The ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas has formally taken effect, marking a significant de-escalation in the prolonged Gaza conflict as Israeli forces initiate their withdrawal from the Palestinian territory. The Israeli military confirmed the truce commenced at 12:00 noon local time (0900 GMT) on Friday, with troops repositioning to new operational lines in accordance with the negotiated terms.

In an official statement, the Israeli army announced that "starting at 12:00, army forces took up positions on the new operational deployment lines based on the ceasefire agreement and the return of the abductees." The military indicated that forces remain deployed in southern command areas and "will continue to work to remove any immediate threat," though specific details about the new positions were not disclosed.

As the ceasefire began, tens of thousands of displaced Palestinians immediately started returning from southern Gaza to Gaza City via the coastal Al-Rashid Street. Israeli authorities confirmed permission for Palestinian movement along this route and the central Salah al-Din Road, creating massive flows of civilians seeking to return to their homes after months of displacement during the military offensive.

Despite the ceasefire, Israeli spokesperson Avichay Adraee outlined significant movement restrictions through social media platform X, warning Palestinians against approaching Israeli forces in northern Gaza areas including Beit Hanoun, Beit Lahia, and Al-Shujaiya. Similar warnings were issued for southern areas near the Rafah Crossing and Philadelphia Axis, with additional prohibitions on maritime activities along Gaza's coast due to "significant danger" from fishing, swimming, or diving.

Israeli media reported that the military began phase one of its gradual troop withdrawal from Gaza on Friday, with completion expected within 24 hours as specified in President Trump's peace plan. According to Israeli Army Radio, the full withdrawal in accordance with the US-brokered agreement should be finalized by Friday afternoon, establishing new security parameters for the post-ceasefire period.