Ceasefire Initiated as IDF Reduces Presence in Gaza Following Agreement

Sat Oct 11 2025 10:35:00 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

The Israeli Defense Forces have begun a partial withdrawal from Gaza, coinciding with a newly established ceasefire following intense negotiations. Thousands of Palestinians are now moving north amid ongoing humanitarian concerns.

The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has resulted in a partial withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza. Thousands of Palestinians are making their way northward as aid efforts ramp up, amid severe humanitarian issues exacerbated by years of conflict. Under the ceasefire agreement, both sides have obligations concerning hostages and prisoners, while the situation on the ground continues to be dire.

The Israeli military reports a partial withdrawal of troops from Gaza following a ceasefire agreement reached with Hamas. This ceasefire is seen as a pivotal moment amid ongoing conflict and humanitarian crises in the region.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have retreated to pre-agreed positions within Gaza, yet maintain control over approximately half of the territory. This development comes after the Israeli government approved the first phase of a ceasefire plan proposed by US President Donald Trump.

As the ceasefire took effect, thousands of displaced Palestinians were seen making their way north toward areas heavily bombarded in recent months, with many carrying what little belongings they have left.

The terms of the agreement stipulate that Hamas has until Monday to release all Israeli hostages, while Israel is set to release about 250 Palestinian prisoners. Additionally, the agreement allows for humanitarian aid to flow unrestricted into Gaza, where the population has been facing dire conditions.

Despite these developments, reports indicate that around 600 aid trucks are expected to enter daily to mitigate the severe shortages of food and essential supplies.

Eyewitness accounts from Gaza reveal that civilians are enduring long, treacherous journeys under conditions characterized by a lack of food and clean water. Many people are seen walking long distances, often in weakened conditions.

The impact of the ongoing conflict is devastating; over 67,000 Palestinians are reported killed since the onset of hostilities, raising alarm over potential humanitarian crises.

Amid these events, families of hostages in Israel expressed mixed emotions over the ceasefire, with hopes for their loved ones' safe return yet concerns over their fate remaining underscored by Hamas's acknowledgment of uncertainties around some hostages.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insists that military operations will remain focused on disarming Hamas and securing the release of hostages, amidst claims of genocide against Palestinians by various humanitarian organizations, a characterization Israel outright rejects.