The shift comes after a mass evacuation order issued by the Israeli military in the early stages of the conflict, which displaced hundreds of thousands of Palestinians, forcing them to flee to the southern parts of Gaza. Despite the cease-fire agreement, which took effect five days ago and is set for 42 days, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has consistently insisted that no armed fighters should return to the northern regions. Mediators from Qatar, Egypt, and the United States worked to bridge the gap between Israel's security concerns and Hamas's demands.
Under the newly struck deal, Gazans can return on foot without any inspections, while private contractors are expected to begin screening vehicles as early as Saturday. This development highlights the tenuous nature of the truce and the ongoing complexities of security in the region.
The contractors' involvement marks a significant international touchpoint in the fragile peace process and reflects broader efforts to stabilize the area amid ongoing hostilities.
Under the newly struck deal, Gazans can return on foot without any inspections, while private contractors are expected to begin screening vehicles as early as Saturday. This development highlights the tenuous nature of the truce and the ongoing complexities of security in the region.
The contractors' involvement marks a significant international touchpoint in the fragile peace process and reflects broader efforts to stabilize the area amid ongoing hostilities.
