White House Special Envoy Steve Witkoff visited an Israel Defense Forces (IDF) base in northern Gaza on Saturday, marking a significant development in the ongoing peace negotiations between Israel and Hamas. The visit came as the ceasefire, which both sides have appeared to be respecting for a second consecutive day, is being implemented. The scenes of thousands of Palestinians returning to their homes in the Gaza Strip have been widely documented, suggesting that hostilities are subsiding, at least temporarily. Witkoff’s presence underscores the United States’ active role in mediating the conflict, with the Trump administration’s influence still shaping the terms of the ceasefire. U.S. Central Command leader Adm. Brad Cooper accompanied Witkoff during the visit, indicating a continued high-level U.S. military and political engagement.
According to reports, the ceasefire agreement entered into effect at 12:00, with the IDF beginning its troop redeployment to the updated deployment lines in preparation for the ceasefire. This move signals a shift in the military posture of both parties, with the Israeli military moving to establish a buffer zone in accordance with the terms of the agreement. IDF spokesman for Arab media, Avichay Adraee, emphasized that, in line with the agreement, Israeli troops will remain in various areas of the Gaza Strip. He warned that residents should avoid approaching IDF troops, as such actions could pose a risk to their safety.
The ceasefire has also triggered the activation of a 72-hour countdown for Hamas to release its remaining hostages. As of now, 48 individuals are still unaccounted for, with 20 believed to be alive and another 28 confirmed deceased. Families of the missing hostages, such as Hagai Angrest, whose son Matan is thought to be among those still missing, are expressing hope and anxiety as the countdown begins. Meanwhile, the human toll of the conflict is becoming increasingly evident. Palestinian health authorities have reported the recovery of 100 bodies from across the Gaza Strip following the withdrawal of Israeli forces. This grim statistic highlights the extensive devastation caused by the prolonged conflict.
Residents of Gaza, such as 40-year-old Ismail Zayda, have shared their personal experiences of the war’s aftermath. Despite the destruction, Zayda reported that his home remained standing, though the surrounding areas were completely devastated. Another resident, Ahmed al-Brim from Khan Younis, described his home and surrounding neighborhoods as being obliterated, with no belongings left behind. Such accounts provide a personal perspective on the widespread impact of the conflict, emphasizing the urgent need for humanitarian aid and long-term rebuilding efforts. As the ceasefire takes effect, the world watches closely for any signs of further developments, with the hope that the fragile peace can be sustained. Meanwhile, the United States continues to play a central role in the ongoing negotiations and the implementation of the ceasefire.