Sun Feb 09 10:35:46 UTC 2025: ## Israel Completes Withdrawal from Gaza’s Netzarim Corridor Following Ceasefire Deal
**GAZA CITY** – Israel has fully withdrawn its troops from the Netzarim Corridor in northern Gaza, fulfilling a key provision of the ceasefire agreement reached last month with Hamas. The withdrawal, completed on February 9th, a day after a prisoner exchange, allows for the free passage of vehicles along Salah al-Din Street, ending the separation of northern Gaza from the rest of the Strip.
Hamas hailed the withdrawal as a sign of the failure of Israel’s military campaign, refuting claims of Israeli victory. The group stated that the return of displaced Palestinians and continued prisoner exchanges further underscore this failure.
The Netzarim Corridor, a six-kilometer-wide military zone established by Israel during its recent conflict, had severely restricted movement for Palestinians. Al Jazeera reports cite accusations of indiscriminate shootings by Israeli forces within the corridor. Israeli soldiers reportedly view the withdrawal as a defeat, having considered the corridor a symbol of their control and power.
While the withdrawal is welcomed by Palestinians who hope for increased freedom of movement and easier access to aid, concerns remain about the return of displaced residents to their homes. Many are now facing the challenge of rebuilding their lives with limited resources and housing options.
Analysts, like Mouin Rabbani of the Middle East Council on Global Affairs, believe the Netzarim Corridor should not be re-established, emphasizing its detrimental impact on Palestinian movement and transportation. The withdrawal marks a significant step in the implementation of the ceasefire, but the long-term implications for the region and the future of displaced Palestinians remain to be seen.
First Piper 