URGENT: Ceasefire Takes Effect as IDF Withdraws from Gaza Regions Amid Tense Standoff.

BREAKING NEWS: Ceasefire Takes Effect as IDF Withdraws from Gaza Regions Amid Tense Standoff A ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas has come into effect, with the Israeli military partially withdrawing troops from parts of Gaza. The withdrawal was confirmed by the Israeli army on Friday morning. Israeli forces have pulled back to an agreed position within the territory, though troops still occupy half of the Strip. Thousands of Palestinians are making their way to the north of Gaza, which has been heavily bombarded by Israeli forces in recent months. The ceasefire is part of a deal brokered by the US government, with the first phase approved on Thursday. Under the agreement, Hamas must release all Israeli hostages within 72 hours, including at least 20 believed to be alive and up to 28 hostages' remains. In return, Israel will release around 250 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences in Israeli jails. The deal marks a significant development in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. The next phases of the agreement are still being negotiated, with key details yet to be confirmed. This is a developing story, and we will provide updates as more information becomes available. *This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Based on reporting from Bbc.*