Over 500,000 Displaced Palestinians Return to Northern Gaza Amid Ceasefire
Over half a million displaced Palestinians have returned to northern Gaza in the past 72 hours, marking a significant moment of hope in the region. According to a statement released on Wednesday by the Hamas-run media office, \"More than 500,000 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.\"
This mass movement follows Israel's decision to allow displaced people to return to the north of the Gaza Strip on Monday. The move comes after a ceasefire agreement with Hamas that has paused 15 months of intense fighting, offering a glimmer of respite to the war-torn area.
In a further development that may signal easing tensions, Hamas's armed wing, the Al-Qassam Brigades, announced it would release three Israeli detainees on Thursday. In response, Israeli public radio reported that Israel would free 110 Palestinian prisoners in exchange. These mutual gestures could pave the way for more comprehensive peace talks in the future.
Meanwhile, Gaza's health authorities reported that hospitals received 63 bodies in the past 24 hours. Among these were 59 individuals recovered from rubble, two who succumbed to injuries, and two new fatalities. Since the outbreak of conflict on October 7, 2023, the death toll stands at 47,417, with 111,571 people injured, according to the health authorities.
The return of displaced residents to their homes and the potential prisoner exchange highlight a critical juncture in the ongoing conflict. As families reunite and communities begin the arduous process of rebuilding, there is cautious optimism that sustained peace may be achievable.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
