Tel Aviv, Oct 10 (NationPress) The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) has reported that a ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip commenced at noon on Friday, following the strategic withdrawal of Israeli troops to designated deployment lines as part of a pact with Hamas aimed at ensuring the release of all hostages.

In a statement via X, the IDF announced, "The Ceasefire Agreement is effective as of 12:00. Since that time, IDF units have repositioned themselves along the specified deployment lines in preparation for the ceasefire and the return of hostages. IDF forces in the Southern Command remain active in the area to neutralize any immediate threats."

In a video address, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu highlighted that while the nation celebrates "tremendous achievements in the War of Rebirth", the "central goal" of his administration has always been the return of all captives, whether alive or deceased.

Netanyahu stated, "Two years ago, we lifted ourselves from despair and turned the tide of war against our adversaries. Thanks to the resilience and unity of the Israeli people, we have endured significant challenges. We have achieved remarkable victories that are reshaping the Middle East. However, as the Chief of Staff noted, the campaign is not yet complete. We continue to face significant challenges but also immense opportunities. Together, we will confront these challenges, seize opportunities, fulfill our missions, and extend the circle of peace around us."

Israel and Hamas reached an agreement to halt hostilities in Gaza on Thursday, an accord announced by US President Donald Trump on his social media platform, deeming it the initial step toward "Strong, Durable, and Everlasting Peace".

Both parties consented to a hostage-prisoner exchange, which will result in the release of about 20 Israeli hostages believed to be alive, along with the remains of others who have perished.

Trump shared on Truth Social, "Israel and Hamas have both endorsed the first Phase of our Peace Plan. This indicates that all hostages will be released shortly, and Israel will pull back its troops to an agreed line as part of the initial steps."

Earlier, Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office confirmed that the Israeli government had sanctioned the historic deal. This ceasefire follows a brutal two-year conflict that has elicited global condemnation.

In parallel, the US is deploying approximately 200 troops to Israel to "oversee" the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, as reported by American media on Friday.

A senior US official informed reporters that the task force will "oversee, monitor, and ensure compliance with the deal".

Last week, President Trump introduced a 20-point peace initiative for Gaza, beginning with Hamas releasing hostages and Israel liberating Palestinian prisoners.

This plan aims for Israel to withdraw its forces from Gaza and for Hamas to disarm, with President Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner, taking a personal role in negotiations alongside Trump’s Special Representative, Steve Witkoff.