Doha: The United Nations announced Wednesday that more than 423,000 Palestinian displaced people have returned to the northern Gaza Strip. “Our partners estimate that more than 423,000 people have crossed from south to north since the opening of the Salah ad Din and the Al Rashid roads on Monday,” Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Stephane Dujarric said.

According to Qatar News Agency, aid workers stationed along those roads continue to provide support to those on the move, which includes food, water, and hygiene kits. UNICEF is distributing identification bracelets for children to help families stay safe and connected on their journey. Dujarric added that those on the move also include unaccompanied children, pregnant women, older people, the chronically ill, people with disabilities, and those in need of continuous medical care.

In the West Bank, Dujarric reported a significant deterioration in the humanitarian and protection situation. Israeli forces continue their operations in the Jenin and Tulkarm governorates in the northern West Bank. As these operations continue, OCHA is receiving reports of civilian infrastructure being destroyed and essential services being disrupted. In Tulkarm, initial estimates suggest that nearly 1,000 people have been displaced due to disruptions in access to water and electricity.