Gaza City: Israeli forces have completed their withdrawal from the Netzarim Corridor, allowing displaced Palestinians to begin returning to the northern areas of the Gaza Strip. The corridor had been under Israeli occupation from 2023 to 2025 during the Gaza conflict.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Israeli forces initiated their exit from the area a few days ago. The withdrawal follows a deal with Hamas, which involved the release of six Israeli captives in exchange for permitting Palestinians to return to northern Gaza. The Israeli troops, some visibly emotional, reportedly expressed sentiments that their efforts over the past year were futile.

The Israeli occupation of the Netzarim Corridor began on October 27, 2023. The recent withdrawal is seen as part of a broader ceasefire agreement mediated by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, which took effect on January 19.

Reacting to the development, the Palestinian Hamas resistance movement described the withdrawal as evidence of the Israeli regime's failures in achieving its objectives in Gaza. Hamas emphasized that the return of displaced Palestinians and the prisoner swap deal illustrate the resilience and determination of the Palestinian people and their fighters.

Hamas further stated that the Israeli regime's 15-month campaign, characterized by allegations of genocide and famine, has failed to displace Palestinians from Gaza. The movement views the recent developments as a testament to their resistance efforts.