The ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas in Gaza has officially come into effect, signaling a potential end to the devastating 15-month-long war.
Following the ceasefire, the release of detainees is expected to take place within hours, paving the way for a possible conclusion to the conflict.
Israeli forces have reportedly begun withdrawing from areas in Rafah, in southern Gaza, to the Philadelphi Corridor along the Egypt-Gaza border, according to Hamas-affiliated media outlets.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that Israel retains the right to resume hostilities in Gaza with U.S. support, pledging to ensure the return of all detainees from the Palestinian enclave.
In his address, Netanyahu stated, "We reserve the right to resume the war if necessary, with American backing." He stressed that the initial phase of the agreement, lasting 42 days, represents a "temporary ceasefire." He further remarked, "If we are compelled to resume the war, we will do so with force," asserting that Israel has "changed the face of the Middle East" since the conflict began.
Watch the attached video to see several displaced residents returning to their destroyed homes in northern Gaza following the withdrawal of Israeli forces.
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