Israeli forces have withdrawn from the Netzarim Corridor, a key military zone dividing northern and southern Gaza. Following the pull-out, hundreds of Palestinians travelled back to northern Gaza, only to find widespread destruction. Many returned in cars and carts loaded with belongings, including mattresses and other essentials.
Ceasefire Agreement and Prisoner Exchange
The withdrawal aligns with the Israel-Hamas ceasefire agreement signed on January 19. So far, 16 Israeli hostages and 566 Palestinian prisoners have been released under the deal. By the end of the initial ceasefire phase in three weeks, 33 hostages and 1,900 prisoners are expected to be freed. Israel has confirmed that eight of the hostages are deceased. The war erupted after Hamas’ October 7 attack on Israel, during which 251 hostages were taken and approximately 1,200 people were killed.
Since the conflict began, at least 48,189 Palestinians have been killed, according to Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry. The UN estimates that about two-thirds of Gaza’s buildings have been damaged or destroyed. The displaced residents, many of whom fled to southern Gaza, are now returning to their former neighbourhoods, witnessing overwhelming devastation.
Security Screening
About 700,000 northern Gaza residents were initially displaced when Israeli forces launched their ground offensive. While some have been allowed to return, movement remains restricted. Pedestrians were first permitted to cross via Rashid Street last month, while those in vehicles must undergo security screenings along Salah al-Din Street, monitored by US and Egyptian security personnel.