URGENT: Ceasefire Takes Hold as Israeli Troops Withdraw from Gaza

BREAKING NEWS: Ceasefire Takes Hold as Israeli Troops Withdraw from Gaza A ceasefire has taken effect in the Gaza Strip, with Israel's military withdrawing troops from parts of the territory after a deal between Israel and Hamas. The withdrawal comes into force at 10:00 BST on Friday morning. Thousands of Palestinians are making their way to the north of Gaza, which has been heavily bombarded by Israeli forces in recent months. Israeli troops have pulled back to an agreed position within the territory, though they still occupy half of the Strip. The ceasefire was approved by the Israeli government after a deal with US President Donald Trump's administration. Under the agreement, Hamas must release all Israeli hostages - including 20 believed to be alive and up to 28 hostages' remains - by Monday at 12:00 local time. In return, Israel is expected to release around 250 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences in Israeli jails. About 100 will be released into the West Bank and five to East Jerusalem, with more set for deportation. This marks a significant development in the conflict, but it remains unclear how long the ceasefire will hold. The next phases of the deal are still being negotiated between Israel and Hamas. 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.*