Crowds of Palestinians who have been displaced are making a challenging return to the devastated northern Gaza for the second consecutive day, all taking place under a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
According to reports from the United Nations, over 375,000 Palestinians have made their way back to northern Gaza following Israel’s decision to allow their return, a move that began on Monday. This figure accounts for more than one-third of the million individuals who previously fled that area during the early weeks of the conflict.
While many Palestinians expressed joy at returning home, even amidst the knowledge that their residences may have sustained significant damage, others faced a bittersweet reality as almost everyone knows someone who has been killed by Israeli actions throughout the ongoing conflict that has spanned 15 months. One displaced resident, Ola Saleh, expressed, “This is our homeland, and we have to go back.” The ceasefire aims to bring an end to hostilities and facilitate the release of numerous hostages alongside hundreds of Palestinians detained by Israel.
In another account from Gaza City, resident Nader Shamalakh returned to a city he barely recognized after fleeing 16 months prior due to escalated violence. Upon returning, he was confronted not just with the aftermath of bombed structures but an overwhelming landscape of devastation resulting from extensive airstrikes and demolitions. Recognition of previous homes was lost, with remnants reduced to piles of concrete interspersed with personal belongings.
Meanwhile, in Egypt, hospitals and medical teams are gearing up to receive injured Palestinians from Gaza as the border is set to open soon. On the Egyptian side of the Rafah crossing, at least 15 ambulances were in waiting. There’s also a flow of supplies, such as tents and hygiene products, being sent into Gaza, according to Ahmed Abdullah, an emergency responder with the Red Crescent in Rafah. Historically, prior to the border’s closure last spring, around 800 Palestinian patients were treated in North Sinai hospitals, and those needing urgent care may soon be sent to facilities in Cairo or elsewhere if patient numbers exceed local capabilities.
In a separate incident, the Israeli military stated that their troops fired at individuals in Gaza they considered a threat, which they described as having engaged in a “friendly fire incident.” Reports indicate the military tried issuing warning shots, but their orders were disregarded. Consequently, Palestinians reported at least some injuries, although health authorities have yet to provide specific casualty figures.
The Trump administration has recently mandated significant changes regarding the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) that fulfills critical humanitarian roles. Israel intends to ban the agency from areas under its control, effective Thursday, while U.S. Congress has also halted funding until March. Allegations against UNRWA suggesting connections to Hamas have undermined its credibility, sparking discussions about alternative humanitarian organizations potentially stepping in to fill the void, a stance expressed during a U.N. Security Council meeting.
In yet another development, two strikes carried out by Israel in southern Lebanon reportedly resulted in 24 injuries, alongside claims of targeting a Hezbollah truck and another vehicle linked to arms transfer. This action has prompted condemnation from Lebanese authorities, labeling it a violation of sovereignty and a breach of previous ceasefire agreements.
In the Gaza Strip, those returning report that their journeys were fraught with difficulty. On the long road to northern Gaza, families encountered various challenges, some even running out of fuel and physically pushing their vehicles. Despite the conditions, Palestinians are expressing their determination to return, with many preferring to sleep outdoors or in makeshift shelters rather than remain in temporary accommodations.
In related news, U.S. President Donald Trump has officially invited Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to visit the White House, marking a significant diplomatic engagement as discussions surrounding the prolonged ceasefire are set to take place. This meeting comes amid an atmosphere of urgency concerning the ongoing conflict and its humanitarian implications.
One released Israeli soldier from Gaza shared her harrowing experience on social media, detailing her initial loneness during 15 months of captivity and the subsequent reunion with fellow captives, emphasizing a newfound sense of hope and support through shared adversity.
Warnings have been issued about the potentially crippling impact of the Israeli ban on UNRWA ahead of its enforcement, highlighting concerns over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the broader implications for recovery efforts. Amid these challenges, aid continues to flow from Egypt into Gaza, with a focus on facilitating timely deliveries and contingencies to meet the pressing needs of the affected populace.
Lastly, Israeli officials reiterated their commitment to maintaining a presence in the Syrian buffer zone, citing ongoing security concerns following regional tensions. The dynamics of these military strategies are closely monitored, reflecting the broader geopolitical landscape within the region.
