Displaced Palestinians in southern and central Gaza are uncertain about their return to homes in the northern region, as tensions rise between Israel and Hamas regarding the cease-fire agreement's implementation.
The Israeli prime minister’s office announced that movement to northern Gaza would be restricted until arrangements are made for the release of Arbel Yehud, one of the last civilian women reportedly held captive in Gaza.
Israeli officials stated that the agreement required Ms. Yehud's release on Saturday, suggesting she may not be in Hamas's custody and indicating that the delay may not solely be attributed to Hamas.
Hamas has accused Israel of delaying the execution of the cease-fire terms, marking a significant dispute between the two parties since the cease-fire began a week ago.
This impasse has left many Palestinians in a state of anxiety as they prepare to return, packing belongings such as kitchen supplies, clothing, and mattress pads.
Hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians are eager to return to their homes in northern Gaza, many of which have been destroyed due to Israeli airstrikes, after enduring difficult conditions in makeshift shelters, schools, and with family and friends.
As of Saturday evening, neither Hamas nor the Israeli prime minister’s office had made any public announcements regarding the plans for Ms. Yehud's release.
The specific conditions for Israel to consider Ms. Yehud's release as arranged remain unclear, although Hamas has previously communicated hostage releases to Israel through mediator lists.
According to the cease-fire agreement, the Israeli military is expected to withdraw eastward on the seventh day, allowing displaced Palestinians to begin returning home. Despite Saturday marking the seventh day, the Hamas-run government media indicated earlier this week that returns would commence on Sunday.
Avichai Adraee, the Arabic spokesman for the Israeli military, stated on social media that access to the corridor connecting central Gaza to the north remains prohibited, without providing details on when this restriction would be lifted.
Amidst this uncertainty, displaced Palestinians expressed their apprehension while awaiting a resolution. Ibrahim Abdulwahed, a 40-year-old displaced man in Deir al-Balah, noted, “Everyone is worried and cautious,” yet he remained hopeful for a resolution between Israel and Hamas.
Others shared a mix of excitement and fear regarding their potential return, with Nour Qasim, a 22-year-old displaced person in Nuseirat, expressing concern over the devastation she might encounter after 15 months of bombardment. “My husband and I have been waiting for this day with so much anticipation, but I can’t help feeling frightened about the great destruction I’ll see on the way back,” she said.