Northern Gaza limping back to life after 6 months

New Delhi, Apr 15:  Four Israeli troops were injured in an explosion along the northern border with Lebanon, according to the Israel Defence Forces (IDF).

The incident occurred overnight, with one soldier reported to be severely injured. Lebanon's Hezbollah, a militant group with ties to Iran and an ally of Hamas, claimed responsibility, stating that its forces detonated explosive devices after Israeli soldiers entered Lebanese territory.

Tensions between Israel and Hezbollah have led to frequent clashes in the region, with cross-border fire exchanged almost daily since the conflict erupted between Israel and Gaza.

Thousands of residents have returned to Northern Gaza and are re-establishing their lives, local media reported. Northern Gaza markets are equally experiencing a resurgence following the opening of the Erez Gate by Israel, one of two new humanitarian routes.

Goods, including medicines and fuel, are now being allowed entry. Social media footage shared by BBC reveals a man grilling meat and chicken in a Jabalia camp restaurant, which has reopened after six months.

BBC said local activist Hussein Odeh noted the return of grills and a variety of food products, albeit at slightly higher prices. While life is gradually returning to the main camp market and prices are starting to decrease, the UN warns of imminent famine in northern Gaza.

Despite Israel approving additional humanitarian routes, aid agencies stress that insufficient supplies reach civilians, with malnutrition claiming the lives of at least 27 children since October, according to the World Health Organisation.

Since the onset of Israel's military campaign against Hamas, the United Nations reports that nearly all of Gaza's population, comprising over two million individuals, have been displaced. Access to essential resources such as shelter, food, medical services, clean water, and education is severely lacking. The conflict, which commenced after Hamas launched an attack on Israel on October 7, has resulted in the deaths of over 33,000 Palestinians. In response, Israel suffered 1,200 casualties and approximately 250 individuals were taken hostage, with around 130 still unaccounted for. At least 34 of the hostages are presumed dead.