GAZA: The deadline for the Israeli military’s withdrawal from the Netzarim Corridor—a key provision of the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas—arrives today and IDF has started pullout.
The Netzarim Corridor, a 6km (3.7-mile) militarized zone, was established by Israeli forces in the early days of the war, effectively cutting off northern Gaza from the rest of the enclave. Since its creation, thousands of homes have been destroyed, and Palestinians were forced to evacuate south while facing strict military checkpoints, searches, arrests, and deadly violence in the area.
For many Palestinians, this corridor became known as “the death corridor”, symbolizing the hardships they endured. The Israeli presence not only restricted movement but also led to numerous civilian casualties.
With the expected withdrawal of Israeli forces, Palestinians anticipate a sense of relief and renewed mobility. Residents who previously lived in the area will be able to check on their homes, while movement between northern and southern Gaza is expected to become easier and safer.
Despite the deadline, sources on the ground report that Israeli troops have yet to pull out, though the process is anticipated to begin shortly. The situation remains fluid, with Palestinians closely monitoring developments as they await the end of Israeli control over the corridor.