Over 90 Percent of Gaza Border Residents Return as Communities Rebuild

More than 90 percent of residents of Israel’s Gaza border communities have returned home, according to new figures released Wednesday by the Tekuma Directorate. The number represents roughly 62,000 people and signals a major step forward in restoring life to the region after the devastation of the war.

Out of 47 affected communities, 42 have now been repopulated. Construction projects worth approximately NIS 800 million are in progress, spanning infrastructure, health, education, employment, and community services. The directorate described its mission as not only rebuilding but also working “to renew settlement, revitalize the region and turn it into a vital, stable, sustainable and attractive area for its residents and for the State of Israel.”

Five of the hardest-hit communities Be’eri, Kfar Aza, Kissufim, Holit, and Nir Oz remain uninhabited but are on track for staged returns. Kissufim is expected to be ready by November, Holit by March 2026, and both Be’eri and Kfar Aza by next summer. Nir Oz has adopted what Tekuma called a “unique plan” that incorporates rural tourism as part of its long-term development strategy.

The directorate emphasized that local leadership has been given autonomy over reconstruction, with Tekuma providing “ongoing support, guidance, and supervision.”

Many communities are not only seeing residents return but are also welcoming new families. Highlights include:

• Kerem Shalom: 88% return rate plus six new families

• Kibbutz Sufa: 90% return rate plus six new families

• Nir Yitzhak: 82% return rate plus eight new families

• Nirim: 90% return rate plus one new family

• Ein HaShlosha: 90% return rate plus five new families

• Re’im: 95% return rate plus 10 new families

• Netiv HaAsara: 83% return rate plus 12 new families

Meanwhile, Nahal Oz, which only began its return process this month, has already seen about one-third of its families come back, along with four new families joining.

Despite the immense challenges, the steady repopulation of Gaza-envelope communities underscores the determination of Israelis to restore and strengthen life along the border. With continued investment and vision, the region is on its way to a future of growth and renewal.

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