Thousands of Palestinians Return to Northern Gaza Amid Growing Destruction

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In a significant development late Sunday night, Israel agreed to open access to northern Gaza, allowing displaced Palestinians to return for the first time in 16 months. This decision followed intense negotiations after a temporary ceasefire was nearly jeopardized when Hamas failed to release a promised hostage. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) withdrew on Monday morning, and reports indicate that over 100,000 Palestinians have returned to their hometowns.

Among them is Moayad al-Shafie, who expressed mixed emotions about returning to his hometown of Beit Lahiya, which has been severely damaged. According to United Nations data, approximately 80% of structures in northern Gaza have been destroyed or damaged since the beginning of the latest conflict in October 2023. The humanitarian situation remains dire, with significant challenges in rebuilding infrastructure, especially healthcare facilities.

Despite the return, many fear renewed violence, as the ceasefire is only temporary, lasting six weeks. Some former residents, like Khatam al-Hassumi, noted that the area now resembles a disaster zone, with ongoing recovery efforts hampered by a lack of resources. "The war seems like a constant in Gaza," al-Shafie reflected, highlighting the ongoing uncertainty in the region.

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