After over 14 months of suffering and separation caused by relentless Israeli aggression, displaced families in southern Gaza are eagerly awaiting their return to the north. This painful journey of forced displacement, marked by loss and hardship, is finally nearing its end. The hope of reuniting with loved ones has sustained them through long, sleepless nights. For Gazans, the announcement of the ceasefire and the subsequent return of displaced families has reignited the possibility of emotional reunions.

Families, once torn apart, now anticipate crossing the barriers that divided them, signaling the close of a dark chapter imposed by Israeli military operations. As the ceasefire’s seventh day approaches, displaced individuals will be allowed to return on foot via Al-Rashid Street without inspection, while vehicles will pass through Salah al-Din Street under Egyptian and Qatari supervision.

Journalist Youssef Fares, separated from his family after they fled to southern Gaza, shared his feelings: “We wait eagerly, with bated breath, for our loved ones in the south to return to the north. It’s the greatest dream, a hope that consumes every moment. We miss our homes and families deeply.” Having endured two displacements—first from Jabalia Camp and then as his family was evacuated to Rafah and Khan Younis—Fares has spent 14 months away from his wife and children. He describes this separation as a second war, one that won’t end until he can hold his family again.

For Fares’ children, the days have dragged on as they count down the hours until they can reunite with their father. His anticipation mirrors theirs: “They cannot sleep, eagerly waiting for the day we will meet again. To be honest, I feel the same way.”

Mohammad Abu Warda, separated from his wife and grandchildren, finds solace in the thought of their reunion. “The announcement of the return felt like a soothing medicine, healing the ache of separation,” he told Safa Agency. Abu Warda’s only desire is to see his family again. “Everything else will fall into place as destined by God.” His longing for the seventh day of the ceasefire reflects the deep emotional journey that comes with returning home and reuniting with loved ones.

For the displaced families, the return is not merely a logistical process, but a deeply emotional reconnection with homes and lives lost to war. It is the first glimmer of hope amidst the devastation they have endured.