TEL AVIV:Â The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office has confirmed that civilians in Gaza cannot return to northern areas. This decision comes amid an unresolved dispute over the release of Israeli civilian Arbel Yehud. Yehud, 29, was taken hostage from her home in Kibbutz Nir Oz.
Israel insists on her release as part of the larger prisoner exchange, according to Israeli officials. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will not allow Palestinians to cross into northern Gaza. Movement restrictions will remain until Yehud is in Israeli custody or the process for her release begins.
Hostage Situation and Prisoner Exchange Deal
Israel has recently received four kidnapped soldiers from Hamas, as part of a broader prisoner exchange. In return, security prisoners will be freed according to an agreed framework. However, the release of civilian Yehud has yet to be fully secured.
The release of Arbel Yehud remains a primary concern, with Israel stating that no further movement will be allowed. Her release is scheduled, but tensions persist over her return, halting the movement of Gaza’s civilians. This decision affects thousands waiting for relocation to their homes in northern Gaza.
Military Forces Remain on High Alert
IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi addressed the readiness of Israeli forces along the Netzarim Corridor. The corridor separates northern and southern Gaza, becoming a critical location for Israel’s control. Halevi emphasized that troops must remain alert and prepared for any developments.
Additionally, the IDF warned civilians to avoid the area until it is deemed safe for reopening. The military has deployed additional forces, continuing to enforce the restriction along key routes in Gaza. Israel’s military stance remains firm as negotiations proceed on Arbel Yehud’s release.
Political and Humanitarian Challenges
This incident highlights the ongoing conflict and the delicate balance of security and humanitarian needs. Observers are concerned that unresolved disputes, such as Yehud’s situation, will impact peace negotiations. Despite recent prisoner exchanges, the delay in northern Gaza’s reopening underscores deep political tensions.
International attention remains focused on the situation, urging progress on the release of all hostages. The Israeli government maintains its position while trying to address the broader crisis impacting the region.
