What's happened
Following a fragile ceasefire, thousands of Palestinians return to Gaza to find their homes destroyed and lives shattered. Many are living in makeshift shelters amid ongoing shortages of water, food, and electricity. The UN estimates decades of rebuilding are needed after two years of intense conflict.
What's behind the headline?
The images of Gaza's destruction underscore the scale of the conflict's toll on civilians. The widespread devastation, with more than 90% of homes damaged or destroyed, highlights the long-term challenge of rebuilding. The UN estimates that it could take centuries for Gaza's economy to recover fully, especially under ongoing blockade conditions. The recent ceasefire offers a fragile window for recovery, but without sustained peace and aid, the cycle of destruction will likely continue. The international community's willingness to contribute billions for reconstruction signals recognition of Gaza's dire needs, yet the political and infrastructural hurdles remain formidable. This crisis exemplifies how prolonged conflict devastates civilian life and hampers development, with future stability dependent on lasting peace agreements.
What the papers say
The Gulf News articles by Devadasan K P and the Times of Israel provide detailed accounts of the destruction and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, emphasizing the scale of devastation and the long-term rebuilding challenge. The Independent offers a stark visual perspective, describing the complete obliteration of entire neighborhoods and the impossibility of salvaging belongings. While all sources agree on the severity of the destruction, the Gulf News and Times of Israel highlight the ongoing international aid efforts and the potential decades-long recovery process, whereas The Independent focuses on the immediate aftermath and the human stories of loss and displacement. The contrasting tone underscores the urgency of the crisis and the complexity of rebuilding Gaza amidst ongoing political tensions.
How we got here
The recent escalation in Gaza began with Hamas's attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in over 1,200 Israeli deaths and the taking of hostages. Israel responded with a two-year bombardment and siege, causing widespread destruction and a humanitarian crisis. A ceasefire was brokered, allowing Palestinians to return to their damaged homes, revealing the extent of the devastation. International aid efforts are underway, but full recovery is expected to take decades.
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Gaza City, often simply called Gaza, is a city in the Gaza Strip, Palestine, and the capital of the Gaza Governorate. Located on the Mediterranean coast, 76.6 kilometres (47.6 mi) southwest of Jerusalem, it was home to Palestine's only port. With a popula