The Israeli military has completed its withdrawal from the Netzarim Corridor, a critical highway in Gaza, marking a significant step in the ongoing ceasefire agreement, according to a statement from a Hamas official. The withdrawal, which includes the dismantling of military positions and the removal of tanks, has opened Salaheddin Road for unrestricted vehicular movement in both directions.
An AFP journalist on-site confirmed the absence of Israeli forces in the corridor on Sunday, illustrating the fulfillment of the withdrawal agreement. This development follows the fifth hostage-prisoner swap that took place on Saturday, where Hamas released three Israeli captives in exchange for 183 Palestinian prisoners detained in Israeli jails.
A senior Hamas official reported that the ceasefire deal stipulated the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Salaheddin Road following the completion of the prisoner exchange. Mediators had informed Hamas of the planned withdrawal on Friday, allowing for the dismantling of military checkpoints and surrounding positions, aiming to facilitate civilian movement and transport in the area.
While the specifics of the ceasefire agreement remain undisclosed, an Israeli security official, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed the preparation to implement the ceasefire terms as outlined by political leaders.
As a result of the military withdrawal, a variety of vehicles, including cars, buses, pickup trucks, and even donkey carts, were observed traveling along Salaheddin Road from both northern and southern directions. This marks a notable shift from the previous month when access to the highway was restricted to northbound traffic, enabling displaced Gazans to return to their homes in the northern region of the territory.
Prior to this development, the Israeli military had heavily fortified the Netzarim Corridor, effectively severing the northern part of Gaza from the south throughout the ongoing conflict that began in October 2023. The completion of the withdrawal is seen as a key moment in the efforts to stabilize the situation and improve access for civilians in the area.
