The relief and the reality for Gazans trying to return home

JVL Introduction

As we watch the first days of the ceasefire and we see the joy and relief just of not being bombed; when fruit and ice cream have been tasted in Gaza again and aid has got through so that food is already more variable.  These days are so long coming and so deserved;  On 19th January, Ali, displaced with his immediate family many times, their home in Khan Yunis rubble :

“Yes my friend, the temporary ceasefire has come into effect, and I am very happy that we are alive. I cannot believe that I am alive after the total destruction and tens of thousands of martyrs. I am very sad about all we have been exposed to and the loss of loved ones, friends, relatives and neighbours. I cry. There are many painful situations and scenes that I cannot forget, but thank God I am breathing now. However, there remains cautious joy, anxiety and tension for fear of the return of fighting again, especially with Netanyahu’s frightening statements today, as he threatens to return to fighting after the first stage.“

Meanwhile Jenin is now under attack and for many in Gaza, what they find is even worse than they had expected.

LL

This article was originally published by Euronews on Mon 20 Jan 2025. Read the original here.