Ceasefire Enacted, Wave of Refugee Returns Begins
The Israeli army formally confirmed its full withdrawal from designated areas in the Gaza Strip as part of the first phase of a ceasefire agreement and declared the official start of its implementation, according to webangah News Agency,citing Al Jazeera via Mehr News Agency.
The military spokesperson stated that the ceasefire took effect at 12:00 PM, with forces repositioned along new lines as agreed in the ceasefire terms.
He added that troops under southern command are deployed to neutralize any threats, and movement from southern to northern Gaza is now possible via Al-Rashid and Salah al-Din roads.
Simultaneously, an Al Jazeera correspondent reported that Al-Rashid Street has reopened and displaced Palestinians have started returning home.
With the ceasefire now active in Gaza, thousands of Palestinian refugees who were relocated south months ago began moving back toward their homes in gaza City and northern areas.
Minutes after implementation began, several refugees headed back to Gaza City. Major roads such as al-Rashid and Salah al-Din-key north-south corridors-have reopened to facilitate residents’ return.
Field sources observed a large flow of displaced people traveling from camps and temporary shelters in southern zones toward northern sectors.
Gaza Rescue Institution Warns: Returning Residents Should Exercise Caution in Evacuated Areas
The Gaza Rescue Organization released a statement urging residents not to approach areas previously occupied by Israeli forces. The statement warned that deception by occupation troops remains possible and targeting operations are still ongoing.
The organization estimates over 300 bodies of victims remain inside Gaza city, advising extreme caution for those returning home. Nonetheless, many civilians have already reached neighborhoods free from occupying forces’ presence.
The rescue agency also cautioned against contact with explosive devices left behind which pose serious risks. It stressed these are difficult times requiring patience and heightened vigilance from all citizens during their return efforts.
