Mon Jan 27 00:12:57 IST 2025: ## Gaza’s Return Delayed: Israeli Fire Kills Two Palestinians
**NUSEIRAT, Gaza Strip** – At least two Palestinians were killed and nine others wounded, including a child, after Israeli forces fired on crowds of displaced Palestinians attempting to return to their homes in northern Gaza. The incident occurred Sunday near the Netzarim checkpoint, as thousands sought to cross following a ceasefire agreement.
The ceasefire, which involved an exchange of prisoners, was meant to allow the return of those displaced from southern Gaza to the north. However, Israel delayed the return, citing the need for the release of an additional Israeli captive. This delay sparked outrage amongst the thousands gathered at the al-Rashid coastal road, many of whom had already packed their belongings and endured months of displacement due to the conflict.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of desperation and frustration as families, including mothers with young children, waited for days to cross. One mother, Ansaf Khadra, stated, “We couldn’t wait a minute. We want to return to our land in the north immediately.” Another, Nada Awadallah, tearfully expressed her determination to return to check on her home, despite the uncertainty.
Ahmed Abu Dan, a 55-year-old displaced for 15 months, voiced the widespread sentiment, saying, “We’ve been through so much…Israel is intentionally souring our happiness by making us wait.” Many expressed their determination to remain until allowed passage.
Medical sources confirmed that Israeli forces fired on the crowds at least three times, leading to the casualties at al-Awda Hospital. Israel maintains that the delay was contingent upon the release of an additional captive. The incident has further fueled tensions and highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by displaced Palestinians seeking to return to their homes in a region heavily damaged by the recent conflict. The north of Gaza, including Gaza City, suffered particularly severe damage.
First Piper 