Palestinians Search for Trapped Victims as Ceasefire Takes Hold

Palestinians in Gaza have started the difficult task of searching for the numerous individuals they believe may still be trapped under the rubble after months of intense conflict. The impact of the fighting has left many residents in shock, as they witness the widespread destruction of homes and communities, with one man lamenting the loss of his brother and nephew, illustrating the profound grief felt throughout the region.

As the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has taken effect, attention is now turning toward the reconstruction of Gaza. Following the truce, which began on a Sunday, the first three hostages held by Hamas were released, alongside 90 Palestinians who were let go from Israeli prisons. The conflict, initiated by Hamas with an attack on October 7, 2023, resulted in substantial casualties on both sides, with Israeli reports indicating the loss of around 1,200 lives in their territory and Gaza's health ministry citing over 47,000 Palestinian deaths attributed to the retaliation.

The Palestinian Civil Emergency Services have stated that they are searching for approximately 10,000 bodies believed to be buried under debris. Survivors like Mohamed Gomaa have shared their devastating experiences, conveying the widespread sense of shock and the reality of total destruction faced by many families.

On a more hopeful note, with the ceasefire, aid continues to pour into Gaza, partially alleviating the crisis. Residents have begun to visit markets again, noting a decrease in prices and the arrival of new food products. One displaced woman, Aya Mohammad-Zaki, commented on the positive changes brought about by the open crossings and the end of hostilities.

The ongoing agreement allows for a minimum of 600 truckloads of aid to enter Gaza daily during the initial six weeks of the ceasefire, which aims to address the immediate humanitarian crisis. On the first day of the ceasefire, over 630 humanitarian vehicles successfully entered Gaza, as confirmed by United Nations officials. However, reports indicate that while the ceasefire largely holds, there have been isolated incidents of violence, raising concerns for the people in the affected areas.

Experts have warned of impending famine particularly in northern Gaza, where many aid trucks are directed. The immense task of rebuilding Gaza is expected to cost billions, with a UN assessment predicting that clearing the extensive rubble could take decades and could be a financial burden of up to $1.2 billion.