Palestinians displaced in war begin journey home

THE Israeli military confirmed that troops withdrew to agreed-upon deployment lines as the ceasefire agreement with Hamas came into effect yesterday.

- AP REPORTERS

A list published by Israel of Palestinian prisoners to be released does not include high-profile Marwan Barghouti, the most popular Palestinian leader and a potentially unifying figure.

“Hamas agreed to the deal only when it felt that the sword was on its neck - and it is still on its neck,” Mr Netanyahu said. “Hamas agreed to the deal after Trump’s plan.

“I promised the families of the hostages, and I also promised you, citizens of Israel, that we will return everyone, without exception. We promised and we are fulfilling it”

Under the ceasefire plan agreed with Hamas, all 48 hostages are expected to be released. Israel believes around 20 of them are alive.