The Israeli military confirms a partial troop withdrawal from parts of Gaza today as a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas has come into effect.
Israeli forces state they have moved to an agreed position within Gaza, maintaining control over half of the territory while many Palestinian civilians flee towards the north, a region heavily bombarded in recent weeks.
The ceasefire follows a deal approved by the Israeli government, aimed at establishing peace and facilitating the potential for further negotiations.
As per the agreement, Hamas is required to release all Israeli hostages, while Israel will reciprocate by freeing around 250 Palestinian prisoners.
Aid deliveries to Gaza are expected to begin soon, with an estimated 600 aid trucks anticipated to deliver supplies to the beleaguered population, yet the immediate humanitarian situation remains dire.
Eyewitness accounts indicate significant troop movements in both the northern and southern regions of Gaza. Reports suggest that thousands of displaced Palestinians are now making their way back to their localities, only to find their homes ravaged and conditions extremely harsh.
While communities in Israel express relief over the ceasefire, fears linger regarding the fate of those still held as prisoners. The aftermath of two years of conflict has left a harrowing humanitarian crisis, with a stark need for food and medical supplies in many parts of Gaza.
As negotiations for further phases of the ceasefire continue, the need for ongoing international support and attention remains crucial to addressing the conditions faced by those in Gaza.
