Major Shift in Gaza as Israeli Forces Pull Back Amid Ceasefire Talks

Israeli forces retreated from parts of Gaza City after a week-long offensive, leaving destruction and many dead. The move comes amid U.S.-mediated peace talks aimed at freeing hostages. Despite the withdrawal, some areas remain controlled by Israeli snipers. Both sides continue to accuse each other of escalations.

Israeli forces have withdrawn from several districts of Gaza City following a week-long offensive that resulted in widespread devastation and significant casualties, according to local residents and rescue services.

The retreat occurred amid ongoing U.S.-backed negotiations aimed at finalizing a peace agreement to release remaining hostages captured by Hamas militants during their cross-border attack on October 7. Gaza's Civil Emergency Service reported that teams had retrieved approximately 60 bodies from areas including Tel Al-Hawa and the outskirts of the Sabra neighborhood.

Despite the pullback, both residents and rescue teams warned that Israeli snipers and tanks still hold positions on high ground in certain areas, making it unsafe for people to return to their homes. Gaza Strip Civil Defense spokesperson Mahmoud Basal described the grim scene, noting dismembered bodies and entire families killed in the attacks.