As the security situation in Gaza evolves, many residents are starting to return to the region, prompting some Australians to take the risky step of traveling to Gaza in search of missing loved ones.

Among them is Shamikh Badra, a Palestinian Australian, who has felt the impact of loss profoundly following the disappearance of his brother, Ehab, twelve months ago.

Shamikh's father passed away due to a lack of medical supplies, an exacerbation of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

When Shamikh and his youngest brother, Majid, attempted to contact Ehab for help with their father's burial, he was unresponsive.

As Northern Gaza reopened to its residents, Majid expressed the intention to visit the region not only to reunite with their mother but also to search for Ehab, stating their hopes for his well-being, while acknowledging the possibility of needing to conduct a respectful burial if he is found deceased.

Starting January 27, tens of thousands of displaced Palestinians have begun to return home to Northern Gaza, a return that was delayed by two days due to disputes.

However, for many, the joy of returning is tempered by the harsh reality of homes that are often uninhabitable and a critical shortage of basic necessities.

Among those planning to travel back is Mahmoud Kaskeen, who has been searching for his cousin, missing since the start of the war.

Mahmoud recounted that his cousin had gone out to fetch food for his family when he disappeared, leaving behind only his car as a trace.

Mahmoud articulated the primary concern for many relatives, emphasizing the uncertainty surrounding the fate of their missing family members, questioning whether they are in detention or among the deceased.

The humanitarian situation remains dire, particularly for children.

Jonathan Crickx, Chief of Communications at the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), reported that since the inception of the conflict, approximately 17,000 children have become separated from their families.

UNICEF's efforts focus on reuniting these children with their parents, particularly through transitions from the north to the south of Gaza.

Despite the growing calls among family members wanting to return, the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has officially advised against travel to Gaza, citing extreme risks to health and safety.

Their Smart Traveller website further warns that the government has limited capacity to provide assistance in the region, underscoring the challenges faced by those attempting to return to Gaza in search of their loved ones.