With Hamas breaching the hostage deal and Israel in response maintaining the closure of the Netzarim crossing and preventing Gazans from returning to northern Gaza, residents, with Hamas backing, have been attempting to create alternative facts on the ground as they march along the route toward northern Gaza.
#شاهد
مشاهد جوية لآلاف الفلسطينيين الذين يرابطون شوقاً للعودة إلى شمال غزة بعد شهور من النزوح تحت القصف والإبادة الجماعية. pic.twitter.com/wXXDghdFZQ— المركز الفلسطيني للإعلام (@PalinfoAr) January 26, 2025
Numerous Gazans gathered Sunday on Salah al-Din Street with their vehicles, hoping to travel to northern Gaza along the route where vehicular movement was supposed to be permitted under security screening at the Netzarim crossing.
Video: Gazans try to breach the Netzarim corridor on January 26, 2025 / Credit: Arab social media
On Saturday, Israel announced it would not allow passage until hostage Arbel Yehoud (29) is released as previously agreed. Furthermore, Hamas has yet to provide the list of the remaining hostages from the 33 slated for the first phase and their conditions. Additional Gazans were observed on al-Rashid Street near the coastline, where pedestrian movement was intended to be allowed once Hamas fulfills its obligations.
Tens of thousands of Palestinians attempted to proceed along the route. The IDF was compelled to fire warning shots skyward and resort to aimed fire to disperse the crowds. Israeli officials characterize this action as Hamas's attempt to exert pressure through civilians seeking to return to their homes.
Hamas spokesman Hazem Qassem stated this morning that they had requested mediators to pressure Israel into permitting Gazans' return to northern Gaza. He indicated ongoing discussions with mediators to develop a solution for opening the Netzarim route.
Concerning US President Donald Trump's remarks about Jordan and Egypt needing to absorb more Gazans, Qassem stated that "Trump's statements are dangerous and align with extreme Israeli right-wing positions."
The IDF Arabic spokesman issued a directive to southern Lebanon residents: "Do not return to the border villages until further notice." With the conclusion of the 60-day pause, all readiness units along the northern border were activated to enhance alertness levels.
