Israel’s prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday said that his country will “expand the circle of peace”, as the ceasefire with Hamas began at noon, Israel’s army said.On the question of the withdrawal of the army from Gaza, the prime minister said that the forces will remain in Gaza to pressure Hamas until it disarms.
Netanyahu further said that the hostages will return in the coming days, hoping that Israel can mark ‘day of joy’ from nightfall Monday if they return. The prime minister informed that 20 Israeli hostages were alive in Gaza and 28 were deceased.The Israeli forces began withdrawal from certain from some positions in Gaza on Friday, as thousands of displaced Palestinians began to trek home. Thousands of civilians could be seen walking along a raised route on Gaza’s waterfront, as people who had been displaced for nearly two years tried to make their way back after the prolonged fighting.
Even before the ceasefire was announced, some clashes continued. The Israeli military said it was checking reports of new strikes. Israel earlier confirmed that all parties had signed the first phase of a ceasefire agreement during talks held in Egypt this week. It said Hamas releasing all remaining Israeli captives, both alive and dead would “bring the end to this war.” The deal came after US president Donald Trump unveiled a 20-point peace plan last month. Trump is expected to travel to the Middle East on Sunday as part of ongoing diplomatic efforts.