"Palestinian Homecomings: A Heartbreaking Return to Ruins in Northern Gaza"

Amid a complex ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel, hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians are returning to the north of Gaza, only to confront heartbreaking losses. Reports indicate that over 70% of structures in the region have been destroyed or damaged, leading to immense challenges in rebuilding their lives.

Hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians are returning to northern Gaza following a ceasefire deal between Hamas and Israel that began after the conflict escalated on October 7, 2023. These returns, however, are marked by a mixture of hope and despair as many find their homes in ruins. Adham Bartawi, a resident from al-Zahra, described his devastation upon seeing his family home: "Half our house is gone... The only thing remaining is two rooms and one bathroom."

The United Nations has warned that a "massive, massive effort" is required to address the urgent needs of returning residents. Sam Rose, acting director of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (Unrwa) in Gaza, highlighted that the population in the north could soon double, increasing the challenges of providing aid and services. Approximately 70% of buildings in Gaza have been damaged or destroyed, with the worst devastation concentrated in the north.

Imad Ali al-Zain, another returning resident, expressed the emotional toll of encountering losses firsthand. "I was happy and chanting on the way back, but when I reached my home I was disappointed,” he lamented. The struggle to find shelter has already begun, as people like al-Zain are trying to clear spaces to set up tents.

With the return of displaced families beginning, many are now preparing for the difficult journey back to their origins. Ihab Qraqeh, who has been displaced since mid-October, shared his experience of waiting to gauge the feasibility of the journey, indicating the apprehension many feel about returning. Even families like Khalil Shabeer’s face obstacles; he and his heavily pregnant wife had to turn back for fear of health complications during the difficult travel back.

As more families plan to return, the reserves of aid being sent into the region are critical, but the scale of destruction indicates a long and challenging recovery ahead for those returning to the north of Gaza.