**Ceasefire Brings Joy and Destruction to Gaza**
Palestinians are celebrating the ceasefire in Gaza, but many have returned home to find destruction. Residents of Jabalia, a refugee camp in northern Gaza, shared pictures and videos showing entire neighborhoods reduced to rubble.
Duaa al-Khalidi, a 28-year-old mother, spoke to BBC News about her experience. She had survived with her two daughters, but lost her husband, mother-in-law, and sister-in-law in the fighting. “I only want their bodies, so I can bury the dead with dignity,” she said.
**War’s Devastating Toll**
The Jabalia camp was once home to over 250,000 Palestinians. During the conflict, Israel’s military operation killed approximately 4,000 Palestinians. The camp was also where many people lost loved ones and homes.
Hussein Awda, a professional weightlifter who has represented Palestine internationally, lost 10 members of his family at the beginning of the war. He documented his journey back to Jabalia and posted videos showing the destruction of his three-storey house and sports club.
**Residents Return Home to Destruction**
Many residents have returned home only to find their neighborhoods reduced to rubble. Ahmed Abu Ayham from Gaza City said that despite the ceasefire, his city is “dreadful.” He and his family are currently sheltering in Khan Younis.
In the southern city of Rafah, Gazans are also moving in an effort to escape the destruction. Mohammed Suleiman from BBC Arabic’s Gaza Lifeline expressed joy and happiness at the news of the ceasefire, but noted that many people are still afraid and need help returning home safely.
**First Hours of Ceasefire Show Fragility**
The first hours of the ceasefire saw 19 Palestinians killed in alleged Israeli strikes. Three Israeli female hostages were released as part of the truce agreement. However, Gazans remain concerned that the truce could be broken again.
Read More @ www.bbc.com