Thousands of Palestinians are returning to Gaza after the withdrawal of Israeli forces
Thousands of Palestinians have begun returning to Gaza City and surrounding areas. It comes weeks after they were forced from their homes by an Israeli offensive that caused widespread destruction, reports BBC.
Watchers record crowds of people heading north along damaged coastal roads. Many cover more than 20 kilometers on foot, carrying personal belongings. People are exhausted after months of displacement, food shortages and lives at risk. Those returning admit they are driven by desperation, as many know their homes have been destroyed.
Previously, about 700,000 residents of the city of Gaza and the northern regions were forced to leave their homes due to the offensive of Israeli forces. The return was made possible after the withdrawal of the Israeli army in accordance with agreements on a ceasefire and the release of hostages. Those who entered the areas of Sheikh Radwan, Karama and Beach camp record serious destruction of residential areas and infrastructure. Despite the withdrawal of troops from certain areas, access to many parts of Gaza City remains restricted.
The Mine Safety Advisory Group (MAG) points out that even after two years, the level of unexploded ordnance (UXO) contamination has not yet been definitively determined. They remain in the rubble of destroyed buildings, where people are now returning.
We would like to remind you that on the afternoon of October 10, the Israel Defense Forces completed the first stage of the withdrawal of troops from the Gaza Strip within the framework of the implementation of the first phase of the peace plan for the cessation of hostilities. Since then, a 72-hour deadline has begun for Hamas to release the hostages.
