Israel: Troops lower flags over Gaza

Israel has lowered its flags over Gaza and its last troops have begun to pull out, 38 years after it captured the narrow coastal strip.

But a handover ceremony due on Sunday was called off after Palestinian officials said they would boycott it.

Israel decided to leave without demolishing more than 20 synagogues, after rabbis argued the move was forbidden under Jewish ritual law.

Palestinians condemned the decision, warning it would cause friction.

Israel has already removed its settlers from Gaza, bulldozed their homes and demolished its military bases.