Palestinians Return to Northern Gaza after Ceasefire Deal

Masses of displaced Palestinians began heading back to the northern Gaza Strip on Monday, following a new deal between Israel and Hamas. The agreement led to the release of six hostages and helped maintain a fragile ceasefire, raising hopes for further exchanges of prisoners.

After over 15 months of conflict, which has caused widespread destruction and forced nearly all of Gaza’s residents to flee, Israel had previously stopped Palestinians from returning home. However, after the new deal was reached, Israel allowed displaced people to pass and return to their homes.

People were seen walking back to the north of Gaza, carrying whatever belongings they could, hoping to find their homes still standing. Ibrahim Abu Hassera, a displaced man, said he felt joy at returning home but was unsure if his house had survived the war. Hamas called the return a “victory,” saying it marked a defeat for Israel’s efforts to displace Palestinians.