Israel has also reportedly backed a group calling itself the Strike Force Against Terror, led by Hussam al-Astal, a member of the al-Majida clan. Al-Astal’s group also clashed with Hamas in early October before the ceasefire was announced, according to Israeli media.

Hamas released seven Israeli hostages on Monday morning as part of the Gaza peace deal brokered by the Trump administration. Why it matters: The Israeli hostages, most of them civilians, were held in captivity in Gaza for more than two years. Their release was a key Israeli and U.S. demand for ending the war.

With start of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire and release of hostages and prisoners, here are some key figures related to the Gaza war and the Hamas-led attack on Israel that sparked it.

Hamas is reasserting control of parts of Gaza not occupied by Israeli forces as the ceasefire takes hold – amid continuing uncertainty about security in the territory if the group is disarmed.

Astal has reportedly been able to “liberate an area from Hamas occupation,” managing to establish a “safe city” of almost one square mile in Khan Yunis. Hossam al-Astal, leader of one of the anti-Hamas militias in Gaza,

At least 27 people have been killed in one of the most violent internal confrontations since Israeli troops withdrew.