The BRICS TimesThe Israeli army urged citizens to avoid northern Gaza zones like Beit Hanoun, Beit Lahiya, and Shujaiya due to heavy troop presence.
Ceasefire comes into force
The much-awaited truce between Israel and Hamas officially began on Friday at noon, according to Israeli military officials. Troops started pulling back to the agreed lines, marking the start of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced on X: “The ceasefire agreement came into effect at 12:00.”
“Since 12:00, IDF troops began positioning themselves along updated deployment lines in preparation for the ceasefire and the return of hostages,” the statement added.
This development followed the Israeli Cabinet’s approval of US President Donald Trump’s peace plan, which included a deal for prisoner swaps and the release of hostages.
Gazans return to their shattered homes
As the ceasefire took hold, thousands of displaced Palestinians began moving north toward their damaged homes.
Ismail Zayda, a 40-year-old resident of the Sheikh Radwan area in Gaza City, said, “Thank God my house is still standing.” He added, “But the place is destroyed, my neighbours’ houses are gone, entire districts have vanished.”
The Israeli army warned that many parts of northern Gaza remain unsafe. Citizens were advised to avoid Beit Hanoun, Beit Lahiya, Shujaiya, and any zones with dense military activity.
Troops withdraw but caution remains
Israeli troops have pulled back from areas near Khan Younis, Nuseirat, and the coastal road leading into Gaza City. However, military officials said they will continue operations to “remove any immediate threat.”
Civilians were also warned to stay clear of Rafah, the Philadelphi Corridor, and troop deployment sites in southern Gaza.
Netanyahu calls for hope
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel will maintain pressure on Hamas until it disarms completely. “Our hostages will all return in the coming days,” he said, expressing hope that Israel could celebrate “a day of joy” soon.
Mixed scenes amid peace plan
Despite the ceasefire, Gaza residents reported shelling early on Friday morning. Medical officials confirmed that strikes continued even after the truce was approved.
According to phase one of the peace deal, Hamas will release Israeli hostages within 72 hours of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire, while Israel will free hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.
Hamas says ‘war is over’
Hamas leader Khalil Al-Hayya declared, “We have reached an agreement to end the war and aggression against our people.” He added that the group will now focus on establishing a Palestinian state.
