Israeli forces have been observed pulling back from central and eastern Rafah, as reported by a source stringer located just outside of Gaza's southernmost city. The exact timing of the troops' departure remains unclear, but it precedes the anticipated ceasefire set to take effect at 8:30 a.m. local time (01:30 a.m. ET).
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that the ceasefire will not commence until Israel is provided with a list of hostages to be released. In contrast, Hamas has affirmed its commitment to the agreement and attributed the delay to 'technical' issues.
