A ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas officially took effect on Friday at noon local time, bringing a temporary halt to months of fighting in the Gaza Strip. The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) confirmed that troops had started withdrawing to the agreed-upon lines in accordance with the truce terms.
The ceasefire follows the Israeli Cabinet&rsquo;s approval of U.S. President Donald Trump&rsquo;s peace plan, which includes provisions for the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners detained in Israel.
As the ceasefire began, thousands of displaced Palestinians started returning to their homes in northern Gaza, though much of the area remains in ruins. The Israeli military has urged civilians to avoid several northern regions such as Beit Hanoun, Beit Lahiya, and Shujaiya, citing ongoing security risks. Movement between southern and northern Gaza will be permitted through designated routes.
Despite the ceasefire, residents reported intense shelling on Friday morning, particularly around the Nuseirat camp and northern Gaza City, raising fears of violations before the truce was fully stabilised.
Under the first phase of the agreement, Hamas is expected to release Israeli hostages within 72 hours, while hundreds of Palestinian prisoners will be freed. Aid convoys carrying food and medical supplies will also enter Gaza to assist civilians affected by the conflict.
Hamas official Khalil Al-Hayya announced that the group had received guarantees from the U.S. and other mediators ensuring the end of hostilities. The Hamas-run interior ministry has said it will deploy security forces in areas vacated by Israeli troops to maintain order.
Additionally, U.S. officials confirmed that 200 American troops will join a joint task force to support post-ceasefire stability efforts in Gaza.

Ceasefire begins in Gaza as Israel withdraws troops and hostages-prisoner deal proceeds

Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Takes Effect in Gaza

Ceasefire begins in Gaza as Israel withdraws troops and hostages-prisoner deal proceeds

October 10, 2025 | 22:21 IST