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Gaza Ceasefire Takes Hold as Israel Pulls Back and 72-Hour Hostage Clock Starts

The US-brokered first phase launches a timed exchange under a deal that leaves disarmament unresolved, with Gaza’s governance undecided.

Overview

  • Israeli forces began repositioning to updated demarcation lines and are expected to retain control over roughly half the territory, with warnings to avoid high-risk areas as key north–south roads reopen.
  • The 72-hour window for releases has started, with Israel saying about 48 hostages remain in Gaza and roughly 20 are alive, and the Red Cross organizing transfers without public ceremonies.
  • In return, Israel plans to free about 2,000 Palestinian prisoners, including around 250 serving life sentences, while published lists exclude Fatah figure Marwan Barghuti.
  • Tens of thousands of displaced Palestinians moved back toward Gaza City after the truce took effect, encountering extensive destruction across neighborhoods.
  • The United States will contribute roughly 200 personnel to a multinational monitoring team based outside Gaza as the UN readies some 170,000 tonnes of aid for rapid delivery, and Germany and Egypt plan a reconstruction conference with Berlin pledging around €30 million in immediate relief.