The ceasefire came into effect at noon local time on Friday, the Israeli military said, as forces pulled back to control approximately half of the territory and displaced Palestinians returned to what remained of their homes. The ceasefire entering into force marked the start of a 72-hour countdown window, during which Hamas must return the 20 hostages Israel believes are still alive. Israel is expected to release 250 Palestinian prisoners and 1,700 Gazans who were detained after the October 7, 2023, attacks.

An estimated 100,000 people gathered on the so-called Hostages Square, where they cheered US President Donald Trump for securing the deal