Core Points - Israel's Defense Minister Katz announced the lifting of the "special state" emergency measures in southern Israel near the Gaza Strip, effective from October 28 [1] - The "special state" was implemented following a surprise attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023, targeting military and civilian sites in southern Israel [1] - The decision to lift the emergency status comes two weeks after the first phase of a ceasefire agreement took effect, reflecting a new security reality in the region [1] - Israel aims to achieve all established military objectives, including the disarmament of Hamas and the demilitarization of the Gaza Strip [1] - The first phase of the ceasefire agreement, which began on October 10, includes a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, the exchange of hostages, and humanitarian aid to Gaza, along with partial withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza [1] - Despite the ceasefire, reports indicate that at least 93 Palestinians have been killed by Israeli forces since the agreement took effect [1]