Palestinians have started returning to their homes in northern Gaza after the Israeli military confirmed that a ceasefire is now in effect across the region.
According to reports, Israeli forces have pulled back to the positions agreed upon under former U.S. President Donald Trump’s peace plan. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated that the troops would remain vigilant and continue to “remove any immediate threat” if necessary.
Witnesses on the ground reported that several displaced families cautiously began moving back to their neighborhoods in Gaza City and nearby areas on Friday morning. However, many expressed uncertainty about how long the calm would last, given the fragile nature of previous truces.
The ceasefire comes after weeks of intense fighting that caused widespread destruction and forced thousands of residents to flee their homes. Humanitarian agencies have described the situation as dire, with limited access to food, clean water, and medical aid.
Local sources said that while some roads have reopened, large parts of northern Gaza remain heavily damaged, with many buildings reduced to rubble. Residents returning home are reportedly trying to salvage personal belongings and assess the extent of the damage.
International organizations have welcomed the announcement of the ceasefire, urging both sides to ensure that it holds. The United Nations called for immediate humanitarian access to affected areas and the safe return of civilians displaced by the conflict.
Analysts say the decision to withdraw forces could signal an attempt by Israel to de-escalate tensions ahead of renewed peace talks. However, officials in Gaza have demanded that the ceasefire be followed by concrete steps toward reconstruction and long-term stability.
The Palestinian Authority has also emphasized the importance of maintaining dialogue and ensuring that humanitarian efforts continue without interruption.
Earlier this week, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas hailed the ceasefire, calling it a “vital opportunity for peace” and urging the international community to support rebuilding efforts in Gaza..
Despite cautious optimism, local residents remain wary. Many say they have seen multiple ceasefires collapse in the past, leading to renewed cycles of violence. For now, however, the latest truce offers a moment of relief and a small glimmer of hope for families desperate to rebuild their lives in northern Gaza.
