Struggling to Rebuild: The Return of Displaced Gazans and the Challenges Ahead**

Thousands of displaced Gazans begin their journey home to a war-torn region, confronting significant challenges in finding shelter and basic necessities, while political discussions on their future remain contentious.**

The trek home for thousands of Gazans, displaced for over a year due to ongoing conflict, marks the beginning of a daunting recovery process in the Gaza Strip. While geographically small, the emotional and physical journey ahead is fraught with uncertainty. Gazan journalist Ghada el-Kurd poignantly encapsulated the struggle, stating, "We have to re-establish again from the beginning, from zero."

The immediate humanitarian needs of those returning are staggering. Sam Rose from the UN's Palestinian refugee agency, UNRWA, noted that while aid has begun to flow at unprecedented levels, it is only scratching the surface of what is required. "We’re able to meet the bare minimums in terms of food, water, blankets, hygiene items. But beyond that, this is a long, long road," he expressed.

With the UN estimating that approximately 70% of the Gaza Strip's infrastructure has been severely damaged, finding adequate shelter will be the first of many long-term challenges. Initial numbers show that around 700,000 people left Gaza City and surrounding areas in the early weeks of the conflict, but many structures remain in ruins, particularly in the northern regions.

The call for emergency resources is urgent; Gaza's Hamas-run government is seeking 135,000 tents and caravans to accommodate returning families, but logistical hurdles remain. Rose warns that global supply of manufactured tents is limited, aggravating the already critical housing situation. The social fabric is also fraying as people return to homes that have been occupied by relatives and friends, leading to disputes over space and resources.

As the re-settlement progresses, everyday challenges are expected to mount. Asmaa Tayeh expressed anxiety over the escalating tension in her living situation as multiple families crowd into her building. Additionally, prices for basic goods, such as food, are rising as demand surges.

Despite these hardships, some returnees express a sense of optimism. "We are overjoyed to return to the north, where we can finally find comfort," said one woman, reflecting the resilience of those returning to their roots. Yet, the conditions they find upon returning are disheartening, with towns like Beit Hanoun looking almost unrecognizable in their devastation.

Political implications surrounding the return of refugees are also contentious. Notably, former President Trump’s controversial suggestion that displaced Palestinians resettle in Egypt or Jordan has drawn sharp rebuke from leaders in those countries, who emphasize the potential social upheaval this could cause.

Jordanian Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi reaffirmed his country’s stance, stating, "Jordan is for Jordanians and Palestine is for Palestinians." In Israeli political circles, far-right figures welcomed the statement, reflecting widening divides over Gaza's future and the fate of its people.

As journalist Ghada el-Kurd remarked, the trajectory of lives in Gaza may depend on prompt reconstruction efforts. "If they lost everything and the reconstruction process is delayed, I think people will not stay in Gaza." With around 150,000 already having fled since the beginning of the conflict, many may seek livelihoods elsewhere, leaving behind those who are most vulnerable.

Conversations about a better life are increasingly emerging, with a call to invest in Gaza's future rather than abandon its people, urging for solutions that ensure safety and stability within their homeland.