10 October 2025 , 13:22
637
0
The ceasefire in Gaza has officially come into effect, Israel’s military has said.
It was enacted at 12pm local time (10am UK time), according to the Israeli Defence Force (IDF).
In a statement released on Telegram, the force said soldiers "began positioning themselves along the updated deployment lines" from 12:00 local time (10:00 BST).
"IDF troops in the Southern Command are deployed in the area and will continue to remove any immediate threat," it added. .
It comes after an Israeli cabinet meeting on Friday to ratify the deal after Israel and Hamas agreed to the initial phases of a plan to end fighting in Gaza in Egypt on Thursday.
Sir Keir Starmer earlier described the agreement as a “moment of profound relief that will be felt around the world”.
The US president said late on Wednesday that the warring parties have agreed to the “first phase” of his peace plan to pause fighting and release at least some hostages and prisoners.
Trump’s announcement was greeted with celebrations in the streets of both nations and emotional reactions from families, who learned they might see their loved ones again soon.
His Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, and his son-in-law Jared Kushner, have arrived in Israel ahead of the expected deal, which is expected to come into effect "immediately".
Responding to the news, Sir Keir said: “I welcome the news that a deal has been reached on the first stage of President Trump’s peace plan for Gaza.
“This is a moment of profound relief that will be felt all around the world, but particularly for the hostages, their families, and for the civilian population of Gaza, who have all endured unimaginable suffering over the last two years.”
The “tireless diplomatic efforts” of the US, as well as Egypt, Qatar and Turkey have been crucial in moving towards peace, the Prime Minister said.
He added: “This agreement must now be implemented in full, without delay, and accompanied by the immediate lifting of all restrictions on life-saving humanitarian aid to Gaza.
“We call on all parties to meet the commitments they have made, to end the war, and to build the foundations for a just and lasting end to the conflict and a sustainable path to a long-term peace. The UK will support these crucial immediate steps and the next stage of talks to ensure the full implementation of the peace plan.”
Politics Editor