Israeli army units were observed preparing for withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, while the Prison Service issued guidance for prisoner release operations, according to Israeli media and a senior IPS officer, as of the reporting window ending 10:05 AM UTC on October 9th, 2025. The Prison Service is awaiting a list of security prisoners to be released, with operational readiness being emphasized even for staff on vacation, and a specific directive to use Nachshon Unit buses to prevent celebrations. Marine boats were reported approaching the shore west of Nuseirat in Gaza, opposite the prisoner towers, during this period. The Prison Service stated that while they have not yet received the list of security prisoners, they are prepared to process the release order swiftly once the directive is given, with security prisoners being informed of the contacts. Previous reports indicated that the Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal, guaranteed by the U.S., Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, includes an IDF withdrawal within 24 hours of signing, contingent on government ratification, and that deceased hostages are to be released in stages. Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich reiterated his intention to vote against the Gaza agreement, emphasizing the need to destroy Hamas after hostage release. French President Emmanuel Macron welcomed the agreement and commended mediator efforts, with France ready to contribute to a political solution based on a two-state solution. Discussions on this matter are planned for this afternoon in Paris. President Trump had previously assured hostage families of their loved ones' return, with an expectation for all Israeli hostages to be released by Monday, October 13th, 2025.
