The Israeli military said on Thursday it was preparing to pull back troops in Gaza after Israel and Hamas agreed on a ceasefire deal to free the remaining hostages.

“The IDF has begun operational preparations ahead of the implementation of the agreement. As part of this process, preparations and a combat protocol are underway to transition to adjusted deployment lines soon,” the military said in a statement.

The Israeli army also welcomed the agreement reached between Israel and Hamas for the release of hostages held in Gaza and said it was “preparing to receive them”.(AFP)