**Israeli Troops Withdraw from Gaza Corridor**
Israeli forces have pulled out of the Netzarim Corridor, a military zone that separated the north and south of the Gaza Strip. This move is in line with the Israel-Hamas truce agreement signed on January 19.
**Palestinians Return to Northern Gaza**
After the withdrawal, hundreds of Palestinians returned to northern Gaza, bringing with them mattresses and other essential items. They had been forced to flee their homes when Israeli forces invaded the area at the beginning of the war.
**Damage and Destruction**
The Gaza War, sparked by Hamas’s attack on Israel in October 2023, has caused devastating damage to the region. The UN estimates that two-thirds of Gaza’s building stock has been damaged or destroyed. According to Gaza’s health ministry, Israeli attacks have killed at least 48,189 Palestinians.
**Residents Describe Devastation**
Osama Ab Kamil, a resident from al-Maghraqa, described the destruction he witnessed: “It was a catastrophe and horrific destruction. The occupation has destroyed all our homes and shops, mosques, farms, universities, and courthouses.”
**Return to Ruins**
Many Palestinians are returning to find their homes in ruins. Mahmoud Al-Sarhi said it was his first time seeing his home destroyed: “The entire area has been left in ruins. I cannot live here.”
**Troop Withdrawal**
Israeli forces have withdrawn from the eastern part of the Netzarim Corridor, allowing Palestinians to return to northern Gaza. The corridor will still be controlled by Israel, but not the road that cut it in two.