Key facts
- Palestinians in Gaza are living in a state of "neither war nor peace" a year after the October 7 attacks.
- Daily life is characterized by shortages of water, food, and healthcare, with disease widespread in overcrowded displacement sites.
- International aid workers report ongoing malnutrition and critical humanitarian conditions.
- Israeli authorities claim adequate supplies are reaching Gaza, with over 600 trucks entering daily.
- Recent Israeli attacks have intensified, with at least two Palestinians killed on Tuesday.
- Hamas has re-established a rudimentary administration in Gaza.
A year after the October 7 Hamas attacks and the subsequent Israeli military offensive, Palestinians in Gaza are enduring a state described as "neither war nor peace." Daily life is characterized by widespread despair, disease, and the ruins of their former homes.
Ahmed Ishtaiwi, a 43-year-old driver and mechanic displaced from Beit Lahiya, now lives in a tent near Deir al-Balah with his daughters. His six plastic chairs are among his most prized possessions, reminding him of his former life. Similarly, 15-year-old Layan al-Jbour from Khan Younis cherishes her schoolbag, the only item she salvaged from her destroyed home, as it evokes memories of school days.
Across Gaza, residents face severe shortages of water, nourishing food, and minimal healthcare. Unemployment and economic collapse are rampant, compounded by the constant threat of death or injury. Despite claims of a ceasefire, Israeli airstrikes continue, with Palestinians approaching a "yellow line" reportedly being shot dead. Recent attacks have intensified, with at least two Palestinians killed on Tuesday, according to health officials.
An international aid worker described the situation as "horrible," noting that while people are no longer starving, they remain malnourished. Ramiz Alakbarov, the UN's humanitarian coordinator for the Occupied Palestinian Territory, highlighted the critical health situation, with infectious diseases spreading due to overcrowded displacement sites and inadequate sanitation. He also pointed to insufficient funding and restrictions on humanitarian items slowing relief efforts, particularly for cold weather preparations.
Israeli authorities dispute these claims, stating that adequate supplies are reaching Gaza with over 600 trucks entering daily. Saleh Kilani, 70, from Beit Lahiya, who lost his farm and olive trees, expressed exhaustion and hopelessness, stating, "This is not a life." He noted how everyday items like fruits and figs, once commonplace, are now surprising.
Hamas has re-established a rudimentary administration in Gaza, providing patchy education, some healthcare, and limited policing. However, Donald Trump's plan to end the war has reportedly stalled.
Esraa Abu Taiba, 26, from Bani Suheila, who used to work as a beautician, now lives in a tent and collects water and food from community kitchens. She finds solace by offering beauty services to others, which takes her back to happier times before the war. Her family lost everything, except for a house key her mother keeps.