Displaced Palestinians return to northern Gaza on Friday. Mahmoud Issa/Reuters

Thousands of Palestinians began the long, dusty walk from the south of Gaza toward Gaza City after a ceasefire came into effect in the enclave on Friday. They found their city lying in ruins – yet were relieved to be returning home.

Virtually the whole population of northern Gaza had been displaced since Hamas’ attack on October 7, 2023, led to Israel’s war in the enclave, and the area has been reduced to rubble over the past two years.

Aerial footage shows vast stretches of land with nothing but ruins. There’s no infrastructure, no electricity and no running water.

Yet for many of those making the trek on Friday, there is no question about returning.

“I pray that God relieves our sorrow and distress

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