Israel Suspends Return of Displaced Gazans Until Hostage is Released

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Amid ongoing tensions, Israel has announced it will block the return of displaced Palestinians to northern Gaza until Hamas releases civilian hostage Arbel Yehud. The decision follows Israel's military spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari's statement that Hamas has failed to prioritize the return of female civilians.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed that Gazans would not be permitted passage to the northern region of the Gaza Strip until Yehud’s release is assured. According to Hamas sources, Yehud remains "alive and in good health" and is expected to be released during a planned hostage-prisoner swap on February 1.

Earlier, four Israeli women soldiers held captive in Gaza were released as part of the ongoing negotiations. The Israeli military reiterated that accessibility to the Netzarim corridor, a key route for returning Gazans, remains restricted until further notice, echoing concerns about Hamas fulfilling its commitments in the hostage negotiations.

Displaced residents of Gaza, including families currently living in temporary shelters, expressed their ongoing hardship amid the conflict. One displaced individual recounted the suffering experienced since being relocated in October 2023.

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