Ceasefire and Aftermath in Gaza

The ceasefire in the Palestinian territory of Gaza led to significant movements of people and highlighted the extensive destruction caused by prolonged conflicts.

Scenes from Gaza City to Jabalia

• Columns of hundreds of people moved northward from Gaza City to Jabalia.
• The path was lined with numerous buildings reduced to rubble.
• Travelers navigated through a landscape of ashen, pulverized concrete and skeletal structures.
• The roads were largely stripped of paving, with remaining parts covered in dust and debris.

Voices of Displaced Residents

• Walid Abu Jiab: Returned to Jabalia to find extensive destruction and described the north as lacking anything worth living for.
• Fuad Abu Jilboa: Described the scene as "indescribable destruction," unparalleled in history.

Reactions and Celebrations

• Despite delays in the ceasefire, the day ended with joy and jubilation.
• In Khan Yunis, crowds celebrated in the streets, with armed men parading and firing in the air.
• People played drums, waved Palestinian flags, and chanted.
• A man expressed that the joy felt was greater than any they've experienced during Eid.

Return to Rafah

• People began returning to Rafah, even before the ceasefire effectively began.
• Despite the delay by Israel, due to pending hostage release lists from Hamas, thousands were on their way back.
• Muhammad al-Shaer noted the return of residents to a city that was no longer as they knew it.