Northern Gaza Remains Devastated as Ceasefire Holds, Israeli Military Maintains Presence
Northern Gaza is largely reduced to rubble nearly one month into the ceasefire, with the Israeli military maintaining a significant presence and dividing the territory in half, according to observations made during a rare press tour yesterday.
Journalists were granted access to the Shujaiya neighborhood outside Gaza City, a location once densely populated and now a “wasteland of destruction,” marked by piles of concrete and skeletal remains of buildings. The area was the site of intense fighting during the recent conflict. For years, the region served as a vital connection point within Gaza, and its destruction severely hinders movement and rebuilding efforts.
The ceasefire agreement has established a “yellow line” separating areas controlled by Israeli forces from those under Hamas control, preventing Palestinians from returning to the Israeli-held portion of Gaza. Israeli forces are actively mapping and demolishing Hamas tunnel networks in the area, and are allowing access to Hamas and the International Committee of the Red Cross to recover remains of hostages taken during the October 7, 2023 attacks. The long-term plan, as outlined by Israeli officials, involves a multinational peacekeeping force and the disarmament of Hamas before any withdrawal of Israeli troops. Further details on the ongoing conflict and its impact can be found at the Council on Foreign Relations.
Israel is constructing infrastructure to support a prolonged military presence, while Hamas is reportedly regrouping and consolidating control in its territory. Access for journalists remains tightly controlled, with visits escorted by soldiers and content subject to military censorship; the Foreign Press Association is currently challenging these restrictions in the Israeli Supreme Court.
Israeli military officials stated they are prepared to occupy their designated half of Gaza for the foreseeable future, but the success of the next phase of the ceasefire – and the avoidance of renewed conflict – remains uncertain.
