In a significant move, Israel announced on Monday that Palestinians displaced from northern Gaza can start returning home from Monday morning. 🚶♂️🏠
This decision comes after a new breakthrough in hostage negotiations with Hamas. Israel's Prime Minister's office confirmed that three Israeli civilian hostages will be released on Thursday in an unscheduled handover. The hostages include Arbel Yehud, whose release was previously delayed, female observer soldier Agam Berger, and another unnamed abductee. 🙏
Under a ceasefire agreement effective since January 19, Israel was supposed to allow Gazans to return by January 25. However, the process was halted due to delays in Yehud's release. With the new arrangements, Gazans can now make their way back north. 🚌
The Israeli military issued a statement informing Gaza residents that they could return on foot via the coastal road from 0500 GMT and by vehicles through the eastern Salahudeen road from 0700 GMT. They cautioned residents to avoid approaching Israeli forces' positions. ⚠️
Hamas hailed the return of displaced Gazans as a victory over \\"plans\\" for forced displacement. \\"The return of the displaced is a victory for our people and signals the failure and defeat of the plans for occupation and displacement,\\" Hamas stated as thousands began moving northwards. ✊
Hamas's ally, Islamic Jihad, echoed this sentiment, calling it a \\"response to all those who dream of displacing our people.\\" 💬
Seven Israeli women have already been freed by Hamas under the ceasefire agreement. Israel also received from Hamas a list detailing the status of the 26 hostages set to be released by the end of the six-week phase one of the agreement. 📝
The upcoming release of the hostages and the return of Gazans mark hopeful steps towards easing tensions in the region. 🌟
(With input from agencies)
Reference(s):
Israel allows return of Gazans after new hostage breakthrough
cgtn.com
