Israeli Forces Begin Gradual Withdrawal From Gaza Strip

The Israeli military has commenced a gradual withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, beginning the implementation phase of the US-brokered ceasefire agreement. Israeli media reports indicate the troop redeployment will conclude within 24 hours, moving forces to positions specified in President Donald Trump's peace proposal announced earlier this week.

Israeli Channel 12 confirmed the military operation will see forces withdraw eastward from southern Gaza positions in Rafah and Khan Yunis, along with northern Gaza areas, approaching the Israeli border. The coordinated movement aligns with the "yellow line" demarcation established in the agreement between Israeli and Palestinian negotiators.

The withdrawal follows Thursday's announcement by President Trump confirming Israel and Hamas had reached agreement on the initial phase of his ceasefire and prisoner exchange proposal. The breakthrough emerged after four days of indirect negotiations in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, involving delegations from Türkiye, Egypt, and Qatar under American supervision.

The military redeployment represents the most significant implementation step since the conflict began in October 2023, which has resulted in extensive Palestinian casualties and infrastructure destruction. International observers will monitor the withdrawal process closely as forces reposition toward designated border areas outlined in the agreement.