Reports from international aid organizations, Gaza government statements, or major news agencies

300,000 Palestinians Return to Northern Gaza After 15-Month Displacement Amid Ceasefire

Jan 27, 2025, 10:19 PM

Thousands of displaced Palestinians have begun returning to northern Gaza for the first time in over a year, following Israel's withdrawal from the Netzarim corridor and the opening of roadblocks after Hamas agreed to release three Israeli hostages, including Arbel Yehud. The Gaza government's office reported that over 300,000 Palestinians have returned to the north of the enclave. Many traveled on foot along the coastal road or by boat, carrying their belongings. This development comes amid a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, allowing families separated during the 15-month conflict to reunite. Among those returning were journalist Mohammad Shaheen, who reunited with his children, and twin brothers who had been separated for over a year. While some expressed joy at the prospect of returning home, others faced the grim reality of destroyed residences and infrastructure in the war-torn region. The war had displaced about 650,000 Gazans who were forced to leave northern Gaza.