Norway calls for aid, release of hostages as Gaza ceasefire takes effect

ISTANBUL

Norway’s Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide on Friday called for aid to Gaza and the release of hostages as the ceasefire takes effect, describing it as a crucial step toward ending what he called a “catastrophic war.”

“I welcome the entry into force of the ceasefire in Gaza and the withdrawal of Israeli forces to agreed areas,” Eide said on US social media company X.

He urged all sides to ensure the release of hostages and prisoners and to allow humanitarian aid to flow into the besieged enclave.

“If the agreement holds, this is the beginning of the end of a catastrophic war,” he added.

The Israeli army began phase one of its gradual troop withdrawal from the Gaza Strip on Friday and will complete its withdrawal to the locations specified in US President Donald Trump's plan to end the war on the Gaza Strip within 24 hours, according to Israeli media.

According to the Israeli Army Radio, the gradual withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, in accordance with Trump's plan, will be completed by Friday afternoon.

ISTANBUL

“I welcome the entry into force of the ceasefire in Gaza and the withdrawal of Israeli forces to agreed areas,” Eide said on US social media company X.

He urged all sides to ensure the release of hostages and prisoners and to allow humanitarian aid to flow into the besieged enclave.

“If the agreement holds, this is the beginning of the end of a catastrophic war,” he added.

According to the Israeli Army Radio, the gradual withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, in accordance with Trump's plan, will be completed by Friday afternoon.