Amid the return of tens of thousands of displaced Palestinians to northern Gaza on Monday, Israeli commentators and officials have expressed frustration and concern, describing the withdrawal from the Netzarim axis as a concession that favoured Hamas. Israeli military and political figures have characterised this move as a strategic loss, while Hamas and the returning residents view it as a historic victory.

Israeli journalist Amichai Stein reported that Israel has forfeited its main bargaining leverage for future prisoner exchange deals by reopening the Netzarim axis, which allowed Palestinians to reclaim northern Gaza. Military sources, quoted by Yedioth Ahronoth, criticised this decision, stating that Israel "paid the price for a full deal without securing the entirety of the counterpart."

Channel 12 broadcast images of banners in Gaza City proclaiming "Gaza welcomes you" and "Thank you for your steadfastness," underscoring the narrative of Palestinian resilience. Meanwhile, Israel's Army Radio acknowledged Hamas’s achievement in regaining control over northern Gaza, with reports highlighting the challenges this will pose for any future military campaigns in the area, now densely repopulated.

Itamar Ben Gvir, Israel’s extremist National Security Minister, denounced the decision as "a humiliating surrender" and described the scenes of displaced people returning as a "victory image for Hamas."

For Palestinians, however, this moment marked a profound triumph. Hamas celebrated the return as a declaration of failure for Israel's displacement strategy, emphasising that the sight of people returning to their devastated homes symbolises the strength and steadfastness of Gaza’s population. Families, carrying their belongings and chanting "Allahu Akbar," walked back to their land despite the scars of war, determined to rebuild their lives and communities.

This historic return highlights the resilience of Palestinians in Gaza, reclaiming their land and identity despite immense challenges and ongoing tension with the Israeli occupation.