Israeli military begins gradual withdrawal from Gaza

Israeli forces have begun the gradual withdrawal from the Gaza Strip on Friday.

Overnight on Friday, an Israeli aircraft launched a violent airstrike on Khan Younis in South Gaza, while artillery shelling fell near the Netzarim Axis in north of the Nuseirat Camp in central Gaza.

At least four people were killed and 40 others were still missing following the attacks.

The airstrikes came as Israeli government ministers late Thursday approved the US-brokered Gaza ceasefire and hostage release plan signed with the Palestinian militant group Hamas.

An Israeli government spokesperson said on Thursday the ceasefire would go into force within 24 hours of the government meeting.

After that 24-hour period, the hostages held in Gaza would be freed within 72 hours.