Two days into a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, rescuers in Gaza are scrambling to locate the estimated 10,000 people believed to be still buried under the rubble from a devastating 15-month conflict. Search efforts are particularly focused on the city of Rafah, where 97 bodies have already been recovered since the truce took effect, according to medical sources and reports from Al Jazeera.

The ceasefire agreement followed a tumultuous period of conflict that began after Hamas launched an attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, leading to the deaths of 1,139 Israelis. In response, Israeli military operations resulted in over 47,000 Palestinian casualties, with many structures across Gaza laid to waste. Points of despair have been uttered by individuals like Mahmoud Basal, spokesperson for the Palestinian Civil Emergency Services, who stated, “We are searching for 10,000 martyrs whose bodies remain under the rubble.” Amid the initial shock of devastation, displaced individuals expressed the enormity of the destruction, describing it as “total destruction” rather than a natural disaster.

As aid efforts ramp up, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres noted that more than 600 aid trucks entered Gaza, aiming to alleviate the humanitarian crisis, especially in the north where starvation threatens many. Displaced residents, such as Aya Mohammad-Zaki, voiced hope amidst the turmoil, sharing their relief at seeing prices decrease and the arrival of new food supplies. “The prices have gone down, the war is over and the crossing is open to more goods,” she remarked, reflecting a sliver of optimism amid the ongoing challenges.

The focus is now shifting toward the long-term rebuilding of Gaza, which the UN estimates may take years and cost billions. A recent assessment suggested that cleaning debris could require up to 21 years and around $1.2 billion. An official from the UN Development Programme stated the conflict has set development in Gaza back by 69 years.

Despite reports of a largely holding ceasefire, isolated incidents of violence continued. Reports indicate that Israeli snipers killed two Palestinian civilians, including a teenage boy, and wounded others in Rafah. The Israeli military acknowledged firing warning shots towards individuals approaching their troops who were deployed in accordance with the ceasefire.

The unfolding humanitarian situation raises urgent questions about the future governance of Gaza. As discussions continue over Prime Minister Netanyahu's handling of the conflict, public commentary suggests growing dissatisfaction within Israeli media regarding his unfulfilled promise to dismantle Hamas.

As the world watches, the dual narrative of dangerous recovery and fragile peace unfolds in a long-torn region, emphasizing the paramount need for humanitarian attention and support in the wake of ongoing tragedy. For more detailed reports, visit Reuters.