More than 500,000 displaced Palestinians have returned to northern Gaza in the past 72 hours, the Hamas-run media office announced 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 stated.
The mass return follows Israel's decision to allow displaced people back into northern Gaza on Monday, after a ceasefire agreement with Hamas that paused 15 months of fighting. The ceasefire has provided a window for families to reunite and for civilians to return to their homes.
In a significant development, Hamas's armed wing, the Al-Qassam Brigades, announced it would release three Israeli detainees on Thursday. Concurrently, Israeli public radio reported that Israel would release 110 Palestinian prisoners in exchange, signaling a possible thaw in relations.
Despite the ceasefire, Gaza's health authorities reported that hospitals received 63 bodies in the past 24 hours. Among them were 59 individuals recovered from rubble, two who succumbed to injuries, and two new fatalities. Since October 7, 2023, the total death toll has reached 47,417, with 111,571 injured, according to official figures.
The return of displaced residents marks a pivotal moment in the longstanding conflict, offering a glimmer of hope for stability in the region. However, the humanitarian situation remains critical, with international organizations urging continued support for rebuilding efforts.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
