Israeli forces began withdrawing from parts of Gaza on Friday after announcing a ceasefire, marking a major step toward peace after two years of deadly conflict. Thousands of displaced Palestinians started returning to their devastated homes with a mix of relief and grief.
According to the Israeli army, troops ceased fire at noon “in preparation for the ceasefire agreement and the return of hostages.” Gaza’s civil defence agency confirmed that Israeli troops and armored vehicles were retreating from key positions in Gaza City and Khan Yunis.
Eyewitnesses said long lines of Palestinians were seen walking along Gaza’s coastline, heading back toward their hometowns. “We’re going back full of wounds and sorrow, but we thank God for this situation,” said Ameer Abu Lyadeh, a resident of Khan Yunis. “Even if we return to ruins, at least it’s our land.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office stated that a framework for a hostage-release deal with Hamas has been approved. The military confirmed it is “adjusting operational positions in the Gaza Strip.”
Before the ceasefire took effect, fighting continued in parts of northern Gaza. Gaza civil defence official Mohammed al-Mughayyir said one municipal worker was killed by Israeli fire earlier in the day.
The truce follows a 20-point peace plan announced by U.S. President Donald Trump last month, which includes multiple phases for hostages’ return, troop withdrawals, and disarmament talks. Egypt is expected to host a formal ceremony marking the end of hostilities.
However, Hamas leaders have rejected some aspects of the peace plan, including the proposed transitional authority for Gaza led by Trump. He said Hamas’s disarmament would take place in the next phase of the agreement.
By Friday afternoon, Israeli forces had pulled out from Tel al-Hawa and Al-Shati camps in Gaza City, as well as parts of Khan Yunis. Residents reported that troops had also vacated other neighborhoods previously under heavy fire.
Across Gaza, scenes of cautious hope unfolded. Exhausted families, many of whom had been living in dire conditions, began walking back to their destroyed homes.
Areej Abu Saadaeh, 53, who lost two children in the conflict, said: “I’m happy about the truce and peace, even though I grieve for my son and daughter. Still, the truce brings hope—we’re finally returning home.”
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