Israel has withdrawn its troops from the Gaza Strip to "defensive positions" outside the Palestinian territory.

It says the main aim of its offensive - to destroy militants' tunnels - has been achieved.

A 72-hour truce - brokered by Egyptian mediators late on Monday - came into force at 08:00 local time (05:00 GMT) and appears to be holding.

Gaza officials say the four-week conflict has killed 1,800 Palestinians. Some 67 Israelis have also died.-- BBC