POLITICS
Ceasefire Takes Effect in Gaza, Israeli Troops Withdraw, Hamas Frees 11 Prisoners
Israel’s military has officially confirmed that the ceasefire agreement with Hamas has come into effect. Under the initial phase, 11 Hamas prisoners have been released while Israeli forces have begun withdrawing from key areas inside Gaza.
According to Arab media, residents have started returning to their destroyed homes, as Israeli troops pull back following the formal ratification of the deal by Israel’s cabinet.
The ceasefire was approved after a high-level meeting attended by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Jared Kushner, and U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff. The agreement, part of President Donald Trump’s 20-point peace initiative, includes the gradual release of around 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and a phased Israeli withdrawal from 53% of Gaza territory.
To ensure compliance, an international task force of 200 personnel will be formed, including representatives from Egypt, Qatar, Turkey, and the UAE.
Observers call this deal a major diplomatic breakthrough, offering a glimmer of hope after two years of devastating conflict in Gaza.