Tens of thousands of displaced Palestinians began returning to northern Gaza on Monday, as staggering images show crowds of men, women and children making the agonising journey home. Checkpoints across Gaza opened for the first time in nearly 16 months, with thousands of Palestinians poised to return to what's left of their homes. Israel had previously delayed opening the corridors - accusing Hamas of breaching the ceasefire deal by changing the order of hostages it released. Female hostage, Arbel Yehoud, had been expected to be released on Saturday, given that she meets the criteria for the first round of releases - she is a woman, a civilian and alive. However, Hamas instead returned four other female Israeli soldiers from the top category of hostages. Staggering images show families, arms laden with possessions and young children, making their way along the coastline. Thousands can be seen trekking across the dunes, some carrying blankets and mattresses, as the sun illuminated the crowds on Monday morning.
