After a ceasefire agreement came into effect, thousands of displaced Palestinians made their way back to their destroyed homes in Gaza. Israeli troops began pulling back as part of a peace deal brokered by the Trump administration. The Israeli military announced the cessation of fire to prepare for the ceasefire and the return of hostages, with Israel still holding a significant portion of Palestinian territory.
As the withdrawal process began, Palestinians, who had endured years of conflict and dire living conditions, started their journey from Khan Yunis towards their damaged homes in the north. The EU mission at the Rafah border is set to reopen a pedestrian crossing soon. Under the terms of the Trump-proposed ceasefire, Hamas is expected to release hostages, including both living and deceased individuals, within a specified timeframe.
Leaders of major European nations have urged the UN Security Council to endorse and support the peace plan. Gaza’s civil defense agency confirmed the retreat of Israeli troops from key positions in Gaza City and Khan Yunis, although some areas remain restricted. Residents expressed mixed emotions upon returning to their devastated neighborhoods, with many struggling to salvage basic necessities like firewood.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized the importance of disarming Hamas as part of the ceasefire agreement. The Israeli government formally approved the ceasefire, giving Hamas a deadline to release Israeli hostages while Israel prepares to release Palestinian prisoners and detainees. Despite some uncertainties, the agreement marks a significant step towards ending the prolonged conflict in the region.
Remaining challenges include the release of Palestinian prisoners, the governance of Gaza post-conflict, and the disarmament of Hamas, which is a key point of contention. The involvement of mediators and the potential visit of President Trump indicate ongoing efforts to solidify the peace agreement. Hamas’s rejection of certain terms and the deployment of security forces post-Israeli withdrawal signify potential obstacles in the path to lasting peace in the region.