Israel allowed displaced Gazans to begin crossing a military zone that bisects the enclave after a deadlock over hostage releases was broken.

Tens of thousands of Palestinians were jubilant to be returning home but fear what might remain of their homes.

Thousands of displaced Palestinians on Monday started returning to the north of war-ravaged Gaza after Israel and Hamas reached a deal for the release of another six hostages. However, the mayor of Rafah yesterday urged displaced civilians not to return to areas of the city as it remains “extremely dangerous.