People across Israel are praising God for the peace deal finally being signed both by Israeli officials and Hamas. The Times of Israel reports that IDF soldiers serving in Gaza have begun to withdraw from the main areas of the Gaza Strip, and the 72-hour countdown for Hamas to free the hostages who have been held since October 7 began.
The IDF released footage of the withdrawal, while U.S. Envoy to Israel Steve Witkoff confirmed the obligations had been completed at 12 PM local time.
In a tearful statement at a press conference, IDF Spokesman Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin said the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip was “an emotional moment for the people of Israel and for the IDF troops and soldiers who have fought and acted over the past two years with courage, bravery, and out of a sense of mission and dedication.”
Defrin showed the IDF’s current deployment in the Gaza Strip as part of the deal, and said that troops “will act to eliminate any threat to their security, no risks will be taken.
“We will do everything possible to protect the security of the residents of the western Negev, the south, and the entire country,” he said.
IDF forces will remain stationed in certain areas of Gaza and border crossings until the first phase of the peace deal is complete. According to the terms of the deal, the hostages are expected to make their return home to Israel on Monday or Tuesday. “Praise be to God, who has not rejected my prayer or withheld his love from me!” (Psalm 66:20). Along with the resilience of the Jewish people, the power of prayer is undeniable.
