Historic Day: Thousands of Palestinians March Towards Northern Gaza Amidst Slogans of ‘Long Live Palestine’
Gaza – (PIC) – 27 January
After Israel eased its imposed restrictions, thousands of displaced Palestinians have started returning to northern Gaza. For the first time in over 15 months, the first group of returning refugees crossed the Netzarim area on Rashid Street, marking a historic moment in Gaza’s history.
Following the withdrawal of occupying forces from the area, many citizens joyfully began walking towards Gaza City at 7 AM via Rashid Street.
This return, under a ceasefire agreement, is not just a step towards rebuilding homes and properties. It also sends a powerful message of resilience against forced displacement efforts, which the occupying forces tried to impose through numerous decisions and massacres.
According to the Palestinian Information Center reporter, the returning Palestinians walked approximately 7 kilometers from the north of Nuseirat to reach southern Gaza City. Carrying Palestinian flags and chanting slogans like “Allahu Akbar” and “Long Live Palestine,” they marched with determination and hope.
Thousands Gather as Agreement Allows Displaced Palestinians to Return to Northern Gaza
In the past three days, millions have gathered along Rashid and Salahuddin streets near the Netzarim area, caught between hope and uncertainty. However, the Israeli military made the release of an Israeli soldier, Herabel Yehud, a condition for allowing Palestinians to return northward.
Ismail Thwabitah, Director General of the Media Office, stated that over 5,500 government employees from southern and central Gaza are actively working to assist displaced individuals returning to Gaza City and northern governorates. These employees are deployed across various government offices, ministries, and institutions.
Agreement Announced for Return
On Monday morning, Hamas announced that, through mediators’ efforts, an agreement had been reached to facilitate the return of displaced individuals to northern Gaza’s valleys. The return process officially started today, January 27, 2025.
Guidelines for Return
The official Media Office has issued specific guidelines for displaced individuals returning to Gaza and northern areas:
- Walking Routes:
- Starting today, Monday, January 27, 2025, citizens are allowed to walk from southern and central Gaza governorates to northern Gaza via Rashid Street – Al-Bahr Road.
- Walking is permitted starting at 7:00 AM.
- Vehicle Routes:
- Starting today, citizens can use vehicles to travel from southern and central Gaza governorates to northern Gaza via the “Netzarim” Martyrs Junction – Salahuddin Street.
- Vehicle travel will begin at 9:00 AM. Vehicles will be allowed to proceed only after undergoing X-ray inspections by occupying forces.
This return marks a significant moment of resilience and unity for displaced Palestinians reclaiming their homes and communities.
