A ceasefire between Israel and Hamas commenced at midday local time, signaling an end to the intense conflict that had persisted for over two years. This agreement also moves the efforts to release the hostages closer to fruition.

On Friday morning, U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff announced that U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) verified Israel’s completion of the initial phase of withdrawal, initiating a 72-hour period for Hamas to release the hostages.

The Israeli government approved and formalized the deal overnight, starting a 24-hour countdown during which troops were required to retreat to designated positions.

“Per directives from the political echelon and following situational reviews, the IDF has commenced operational preparations for the agreement’s execution. This includes setting up and adapting combat protocols to transition swiftly to redefined deployment zones. The IDF remains on standby in the area, ready for any operational changes,” stated the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) on X.

Though the U.S. is not deploying troops directly to Gaza, two American officials informed Fox News that 200 troops from CENTCOM would be dispatched to Israel to monitor the ceasefire’s execution. They will assist with security, humanitarian efforts, and the overarching deal implementation, covering areas like transportation, logistics, and engineering, according to the officials.

During a Cabinet meeting on Thursday, President Donald Trump mentioned his expectation that the hostages would return home by Monday or Tuesday. The president further stated his intention to visit the Middle East for the agreement’s official signing.

“We secured the release of all of the remaining hostages, and they should be released on Monday or Tuesday,” Trump said, adding that the day the hostages return will “be a day of joy.”

People walk past posters of hostages held by the Gaza-based terrorist group Hamas at Hostage Square in Tel Aviv, Israel, on Oct. 10, 2025.  (AHMAD GHARABLI/AFP via Getty Images)

On Wednesday, hours after the announcement that Israel and Hamas signed the first phase of the deal, Trump spoke with family members of hostages being held in Gaza. The families thanked the president and praised him for securing a deal that would bring their loved ones home after more than two years in captivity.