In a remarkable development, over half a million displaced Palestinians have returned to northern Gaza within the past 72 hours, according to a statement released by the Hamas-run media office on Wednesday.
\"More than half a million displaced Palestinians have returned in the past 72 hours from the southern and central governorates to Gaza and northern governorates via Al-Rashid and Salah Al-Din roads,\" the media office announced.
The mass return follows a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas that began on Monday, halting 15 months of intense fighting. The ceasefire has permitted the reopening of key roads, allowing civilians to return to their homes in the northern regions of the Gaza Strip.
In a move that could further ease tensions, Hamas's armed wing, the Al-Qassam Brigades, stated it plans to release three Israeli detainees on Thursday. Israeli public radio reported that Israel would free 110 Palestinian prisoners in exchange.
Meanwhile, Gaza's health authorities reported that hospitals have received 63 bodies in the past 24 hours, including 59 recovered from rubble, two who died of injuries, and two new fatalities. This brings the total death toll since October 7, 2023, to 47,417, with 111,571 injured, according to the authorities.
These developments mark a significant moment in the region's ongoing conflict, offering a glimmer of hope for stability and peace. The return of displaced residents is a critical step toward rebuilding communities and restoring normalcy in the lives of many Palestinians.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
