The Israeli army has announced that the Gaza ceasefire agreement is now in effect. According to the agreement, Hamas will release 11 prisoners. Israeli forces have started withdrawing from designated lines inside Gaza. Meanwhile, residents of Gaza have begun returning to their homes and areas. The ceasefire marks a significant step toward reducing hostilities after months of conflict.
The Israeli cabinet officially approved the ceasefire and prisoner exchange deal. The agreement includes the release of all Palestinian women and children held in Israeli prisons. The approval came during a high-level meeting attended by Israeli Prime Minister, ministers, and US officials including Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Israel agreed to release around 2,000 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for freeing hostages and a partial withdrawal of Israeli troops.
Read more: Hamas and Israel sign ceasefire, hostage deal
Under the deal, the Israeli military will move to new positions within Gaza but will keep control over roughly 53 percent of the area. A 72-hour window has been given for Hamas to release all hostages. This arrangement aims to ensure a peaceful transition and build trust between the parties involved. The ceasefire hopes to bring relief to civilians affected by the recent violence.
Efforts to achieve peace in Gaza have been ongoing for months. US President Donald Trump proposed a 20-point peace plan that received support from Pakistan and seven other Muslim countries, as well as Israel. Negotiations between Hamas and Israeli officials took place in Egypt under the supervision of international mediators. Recently, Trump announced the Gaza peace deal, which seeks to stabilize the region.
Read more: Gaza Ceasefire Between Israel and Hamas Officially Begins
Additionally, a senior US official revealed that an international force of 200 personnel will monitor the ceasefire. This force will include military members from Egypt, Qatar, Turkey, and possibly the UAE. The aim is to maintain peace and prevent further conflict. The international community remains hopeful that this ceasefire will lead to a lasting solution in Gaza.