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Return over the Rubble... Hopes and Challenges After the Ceasefire in Gaza
Since the Israeli army announced the start of the ceasefire in Gaza, thousands of displaced people have been flowing from the south to the north of the region, with joyful marches carrying hopes of restoring life after years of conflict and destruction. The return was not limited to densely populated areas but extended to streets and neighborhoods turned into ruins, as many walked on foot through Al-Rashid Street, a route they were accustomed to in past years.
In Khan Yunis, in the southern Gaza Strip, others returned to see their destroyed homes, according to AFP. Meanwhile, most of the returnees expressed their happiness about the ceasefire despite images and videos showing the extent of the widespread destruction, documented by satellites and media outlets in Khan Yunis, Rafah, Gaza City, and Jabalia.
Gazan Civil Defense spokesperson Mahmoud Basal confirmed that the number of returnees to the north exceeded 200,000 people, amid a state of waiting and hope for a more hopeful future. Despite the difficult circumstances, medical teams managed to recover 155 bodies over the past 24 hours, victims of previous weeks, before the partial withdrawal of Israeli forces from some areas, after ambulance services struggled with the ongoing hazardous field conditions.
Despite the tragedies, some residents of Gaza celebrated peace, with small events held in the south, decorated with songs and greetings. Palestinians distributed sweets to celebrate the ceasefire, an event welcomed with hope-filled hearts by the population.
In a related context, Israel announced the repositioning of its forces in parts of Gaza, with warnings that many areas still pose high risks to civilians. The first phase of the ceasefire agreement, which has begun to be implemented, includes a ceasefire, exchanges of Palestinian and Israeli hostages, and gradual Israeli withdrawals from some areas.
U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Wicuff confirmed that Israel completed its withdrawals in accordance with the first phase agreement, adding that the deadline is now set to release the hostages within the next 72 hours. Israeli government spokesperson Shosh Bitarossian clarified that the army will remain in control of 53% of Gaza, reflecting the ongoing priorities and interests at play.
