Tel aviv: Israel announced on Friday that a ceasefire agreement with Gaza has officially come into effect as of 12 noon local time (0900 GMT). The Israeli army confirmed that forces have repositioned according to the new operational deployment lines as part of the agreement, facilitating the return of abductees and ensuring the removal of any immediate threat in the southern command area.
According to Anadolu Agency, as the ceasefire commenced, tens of thousands of displaced Palestinians began returning from the southern Gaza Strip to Gaza City via the coastal Al-Rashid Street. The Israeli army has permitted movement along this road and the central Salah al-Din Road. However, Israeli spokesperson Avichay Adraee has outlined strict restrictions on the movement of Palestinians in the area, warning against approaching Israeli forces or certain high-risk zones.
The Israeli army initiated phase one of its gradual troop withdrawal from the Gaza Strip on Friday, with plans to complete the withdrawal to locations specified in US President Donald Trump's plan within 24 hours. This announcement follows a four-day negotiation period in Sharm el-Sheikh, involving delegations from Turkey, Egypt, and Qatar, under US supervision.
The initial withdrawal has unveiled extensive destruction in Gaza City, with large residential areas and infrastructure reduced to rubble. Activists and journalists have shared footage on social media revealing the devastating aftermath in areas vacated by Israeli forces. Significant damage has been reported in the Sheikh Radwan neighborhood and the Al-Nasr district, where numerous homes have been destroyed.
The Gaza Civil Defense has urged residents to avoid areas vacated by Israeli forces due to potential dangers. This caution is compounded by reports of intense demolition and bombing operations conducted by the Israeli army before withdrawing.
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has welcomed the ceasefire, emphasizing its importance after two years of conflict. ICRC President Mirjana Spoljaric highlighted the critical nature of the coming days and urged all parties to honor their commitments to ensure the safe return of hostages and detainees, as well as the distribution of humanitarian aid.
Furthermore, Israel has announced plans to allow Palestinians stranded outside the Gaza Strip to return via the Rafah crossing for the first time since October 7, 2023. This decision follows the establishment of a mechanism with Egypt to facilitate the return of Gaza residents.