Ceasefire, what ceasefire? One year on, Gazans still displaced, still shelled, still waiting for change

One year after a US-brokered ceasefire was declared in the Gaza Strip, residents continue to live in camps under constant Israeli airstrikes, with no relief in sight. Israel has toned down the severity of the attacks but maintains a stronghold, controlling approximately 70% of the territory. The reconstruction initiatives meant to alleviate the devastation are yet to take shape.

Fatima Awkal, a displaced woman in Gaza City, expressed her frustration: "Nothing has changed for the better; everything has gotten worse, they lie to us, it is all lies." The constant drone buzz and shelling have rendered the ceasefire a hollow promise. Ahmed Jonaid, another displaced resident, lamented his ongoing struggle: "We thought we would experience some happiness and return to our homes.

Instead, we see ourselves suffering in refugee camps, sleeping on makeshift mats." The majority of Gaza's population has been displaced at least once due to the conflict, with 82% of all buildings either damaged or destroyed. Overcrowded shelters result in poor hygiene, leading to disease outbreaks. Dr. Ahmed Shawan, a doctor in Khan Yunis, also observed the absence of tangible change: "It has been a full year since the ceasefire was declared, yet it exists only on paper."

The second part of the agreement aimed at a political transition away from Hamas' rule remains dormant, with Hamas retaining control of security. Five countries have pledged to join the International Stabilisation Force, but their deployment has not begun. Israel retains control over Gaza's entry points, allowing limited aid, which drives up the cost of essential goods.

Ismail Hamouda, a 47-year-old father displaced from Jabaliya to Gaza City, expressed the dire situation: "We thought that after a year of ceasefire things would improve and get better. Unfortunately, the situation is worsening gradually... (and) we are still displaced."