Palestinians stream back to Northern Gaza amid hostage breakthrough

Tens of thousands of displaced Palestinians began returning to northern Gaza on Monday after Hamas agreed to release three Israeli hostages later this week, and Israeli forces opened key routes in the enclave as part of a ceasefire arrangement.

Families carrying children and bundles of belongings streamed along the coastal roads, with some pushing elderly relatives in wheelchairs. The first groups reached Gaza City early in the morning as checkpoints reopened, marking the first significant return after 15 months of relentless conflict.

“My heart is racing. I thought I’d never come back,” said Osama, a father of five, as he arrived back in Gaza City. “No matter what happens now, we will not leave our homes again.”

The ceasefire agreement, mediated by Qatar, comes after weeks of negotiations. Hamas pledged to release Arbel Yehud, a civilian hostage, along with soldier Agam Berger and another individual on Thursday. This breakthrough allowed Israeli officials to authorize the return of displaced Palestinians.

Residents greeted the news with a mix of relief and determination. “At least we are going back home,” said Ghada, a mother of five. “Now I can say the war is over—at least, I hope it stays calm.”

Widespread Destruction

The war, triggered by Hamas’ October 2023 attack on southern Israel that killed 1,200 people and led to 251 hostages being taken, left much of Gaza devastated. The Gaza health ministry reports over 47,000 Palestinians have been killed since the fighting began.

Approximately 650,000 people were displaced from northern Gaza during the conflict. As they return, the challenge of rebuilding looms large. The Hamas-run Gaza government says returnees urgently need over 135,000 tents and temporary shelters.

Under the ceasefire, only unarmed individuals are permitted to move north, and vehicles are subject to inspection to prevent the transport of weapons. Egyptian security forces are supervising the process, while Hamas police monitor the roads.

Meanwhile, Palestinian officials rejected a proposal by former U.S. President Donald Trump suggesting permanent relocation to neighboring countries. “Our fight is for our homes, not a new exile,” said a senior Hamas representative.

Despite the agreement, the situation remains fragile, with both sides on alert for any breaches. For many Palestinians, however, the opportunity to return home provides a long-awaited sense of hope amidst the ruins.

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