Gaza residents return after ceasefire deal

In a significant development in Gaza, tens of thousands of Palestinians began returning to their homes in the northern region following an agreement between Hamas and Israel. The movement, which was initially delayed over the weekend, proceeded after Hamas committed to releasing three Israeli hostages this week and Israeli forces withdrew from a main corridor across the enclave.
Gaza authorities reported that over 300,000 people had crossed into Gaza City and the northern areas. The return began early morning with crossing points opening at 7:00 AM, allowing both pedestrians and later vehicles to pass. Many returnees expressed mixed emotions of joy and apprehension about the condition of their homes in the heavily damaged area.
The movement is part of a ceasefire agreement in the 15-month-long conflict that began with Hamas' October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, which resulted in 1,200 Israeli deaths and 251 hostages taken. The subsequent Israeli response has led to over 47,000 Palestinian casualties, according to Gaza's health ministry.
The return was enabled after a dispute resolution involving Qatari mediators, with Hamas agreeing to release hostages Arbel Yehud, Agam Berger, and another captive on Thursday, followed by three more on Saturday. Hamas has provided a list showing 25 of 33 hostages scheduled for release in the first phase are alive.
The Gaza government media office estimates returnees will need at least 135,000 tents and shelters as they attempt to rebuild their lives in the devastated landscape. Despite the ceasefire, tensions remain, with Palestinian officials reporting one casualty from an Israeli missile strike, though Israel maintains it only operated against security threats.
The movement marks a crucial phase in the ongoing conflict, though challenges remain with widespread destruction and the complex process of hostage releases continuing to influence the situation.