Israel’s barbarism to Palestinians returning to Gaza.

JVL Introduction

The promised numbers allowed out of and to return to Gaza have not been met by Israel.  Only 77 (rather than the promised 200) had been let back in the first four days that the Rafah Crossing was “opened”. Here in their own words, Palestinians describe their longing for return and the appalling treatment they received from Israeli forces. These people were allowed out for medical treatment and were subject to cruel interrogation, stress and aggression. Despite having already been vetted to get approval to return, when the coach they were on reached the “the Israeli security check, soldiers handcuffed the passengers, blindfolded them, and led them to interrogation rooms.” (my emph LL)  The Israeli forces are also using the Palestinian gang members who collaborated with and were protected by Israel.

Few enough people were allowed to leave for medical treatment and they have been separated from their families for a year or more and are desperate to be reunited.  It is clear that the Israelis do not want Palestinians to return and do not want to understand why they do.  As one returnee said “Life in Egypt, despite the warmth and care shown to Palestinians, is exile. Gaza is our homeland, and our family is there. We do not want to be separated from them.”

LL

This article was originally published by Mondoweiss on Fri 6 Feb 2026. Read the original here.