Internal security forces deploy across Gaza as ceasefire takes effect

• Internal security forces deployed across Gaza as displaced residents begin returning north.

• 'Israeli' army completed first withdrawal phase; 72-hour window for captive release begins.

Internal security forces have been deployed at major intersections across Gaza City as the ceasefire between Hamas and ‘Israel’ took effect.

Thousands of displaced Palestinians began returning north from southern Gaza following the ceasefire, as calm returns to the strip.

Simultaneously, the ‘Israeli’ army started repositioning its forces along new deployment lines as part of the plan and release of captives. 

Read more: Hamas official denies rumors of secret clauses in Gaza ceasefire agreement

US envoy Steve Witkoff confirmed that ‘Israel’ completed the first phase of withdrawal to the “yellow line” and that a 72-hour window for the release of captives has begun.

The ceasefire followed intensive negotiations hosted by Egypt, with mediation from Qatar and the United States, based on a plan proposed by US President Donald Trump to end the two-year catastrophe.