In Gaza, a large number of people are starting to return to their homes in the northern areas after the recent ceasefire. According to Gaza Civil Defence, around 200,000 people have gone back to the north since the fighting stopped. Many of these people had left their homes months ago because of the war. Now, they are going back with the hope of finding peace, even though their towns and villages are badly damaged.
A Difficult Journey Home
For many families, going back to the north is not easy. Roads are broken, buildings are destroyed, and there is very little transport. Some people are walking long distances, while others are using donkeys or small carts to carry their belongings.
People say they are not sure what they will find when they reach home. Many houses were hit during the fighting. Some families have no roofs, no doors, and no electricity. But even with all these problems, they prefer to go back to their own land rather than live in crowded camps.
The Ceasefire Brings Hope
The ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas has given people a chance to breathe. The guns have gone silent, and the sound of explosions has stopped — at least for now. Many people say this is the first time in months they have slept without fear.
Gaza Civil Defence said that their teams are trying to make the roads safer so more families can return. They are removing debris and checking for dangerous objects left behind during the fighting.
Life Is Still Very Hard
Even though people are going back home, daily life remains very difficult. Most homes in the north have no electricity, clean water, or proper sanitation. Many shops are closed, and bakeries are not working because of a lack of fuel.
Aid groups say they are trying to deliver food, water, and other help to the returning families. But damaged roads and limited supplies are making it very hard to reach everyone. Families are cooking over small fires and using water from wells, even though it is not always clean.
Civil Defence Working to Clear Areas
Gaza Civil Defence teams are working day and night to clear dangerous areas. They are removing unexploded bombs, broken concrete, and damaged vehicles. These teams are also helping families find their loved ones who may still be missing.
Officials have asked people to be careful and not to enter destroyed buildings without help. Many buildings are weak and can collapse easily.
A New Start After a Long War
For the people of northern Gaza, returning home is not just about finding shelter. It is also about hope and dignity. Many say they want to rebuild their lives, even if it takes a long time. Parents say they want their children to go back to school and live without fear.
Humanitarian groups and world leaders have called for the ceasefire to continue so people can rebuild their homes in peace. They say what Gaza needs now is not more war, but help, support, and time to heal.
Conclusion
The return of 200,000 people to northern Gaza shows how strong and determined ordinary people are, even in the face of war and destruction. Life will not be easy for them, but this return is a sign of hope.
As the ceasefire continues, the people of Gaza are trying to start again — step by step, brick by brick — to rebuild their lives and their future.