As a four-day truce brokered by Qatar went into effect, many displaced Palestinians in Gaza attempted to return home, seeking a moment of respite from the conflict. However, Israel has declared the northern part of Gaza off-limits, citing it as a combat zone.
Videos obtained by Al Jazeera captured Palestinians in Beit Lahiya, northern Gaza, returning home, defying Israeli warnings. Tragically, at least two Palestinians were reported killed, and 11 wounded by the Israeli military during attempts to reach the north.
Israel, anticipating efforts by Hamas to encourage civilian returns to the northern Gaza Strip, dropped leaflets warning against such movements. The military spokesperson emphasized that the area is deemed a combat zone, urging residents to stay away for their safety.
Despite these warnings, hundreds of displaced Palestinians were observed walking north on Friday. Palestinian news agency Wafa reported seven people wounded by Israeli forces during these attempts, with injuries ranging from gunshot wounds to other injuries in the legs.
The truce, though offering a brief reprieve, brings mixed emotions for many who have lost their homes during the seven weeks of conflict. Gaza resident Ashraf Shann expressed the dilemma: “I have nowhere to go back to even if [the Israelis] allow us to go back to Gaza City. My house was bombed and completely destroyed on the third day of the war.”
While some cautiously welcome the ceasefire as an opportunity to check on loved ones and assess damages, there is a looming sense of disappointment. Israeli officials have hinted that the war may resume in a matter of days, leaving Palestinians uncertain about the future.
Hani Mahmoud, reporting from Khan Younis, highlighted the cautious optimism among Gazans, acknowledging the devastation caused by relentless airstrikes. The ceasefire, for many, is seen as incomplete and unfair, raising concerns about the resumption of hostilities.
Israel’s war in Gaza, ongoing since October 7, has resulted in a devastating toll, with over 14,800 people killed. In Israel, the official death toll from Hamas attacks before the war stands at approximately 1,200.
