Palestinians in Gaza Hope for Return Home Amid Ceasefire, Yet Face Devastation

Residents of the Gaza Strip are desperate to leave temporary shelters and return home if a ceasefire ends the Israel-Hamas conflict. However, many will find their homes destroyed and rebuilding nearly impossible. Israeli military actions have turned entire neighbourhoods into ruins, with damaged roads and critical infrastructure. Most hospitals are non-functional, and it's uncertain when reconstruction might begin.

The ceasefire agreement includes phased plans for reconstruction and hostage release but lacks clarity on Gaza's governance post-war. It also doesn't address whether Israel and Egypt will lift the blockade imposed in 2007 when Hamas took control. The United Nations warns that rebuilding could take over 350 years if the blockade continues.

Extent of Destruction

The full scope of damage will only be clear once fighting ceases and inspectors can access the area. The northern part of Gaza, heavily damaged and largely evacuated by Israeli forces since early October, remains inaccessible. Satellite data from last month shows 69% of Gaza's structures are damaged or destroyed, including over 245,000 homes.

The World Bank estimates the war has caused USD 18.5 billion in damage, nearly matching the combined economic output of the West Bank and Gaza in 2022. Israel attributes this destruction to Hamas, which initiated the conflict with an attack on October 7 that killed approximately 1,200 people in Israel.

Challenges in Rebuilding

Before reconstruction can begin, removing the rubble is essential but daunting. The UN estimates over 50 million tons of debris litter Gaza, equivalent to 12 times the Great Pyramid of Giza's size. Clearing this would take over 15 years with more than 100 trucks working continuously.

The debris contains unexploded ordnance, hazardous materials, and human remains, complicating removal efforts. Gaza's Health Ministry reports thousands killed in airstrikes remain buried under the rubble.

Future Governance Uncertain

The ceasefire outlines a 3-5 year reconstruction plan starting after all hostages are released and Israeli troops withdraw. However, this depends on negotiating a challenging second phase of the agreement. Even initial phases faced delays due to disputes between Israel and Hamas.

Rebuilding hinges on lifting the blockade, criticized as collective punishment by many. Israel argues it's necessary to prevent Hamas from rearming, as construction materials could be used for military purposes.

International Involvement

Israel might consider lifting the blockade if Hamas loses power, but no alternative government is planned. The US and international community support a revitalized Palestinian Authority governing both West Bank and Gaza with Arab countries' backing towards eventual statehood.

However, Israel's government opposes a Palestinian state and rejects any role for the Western-backed authority in Gaza. Without governance plans, international donors may hesitate to invest in a region that has experienced five wars in less than two decades.

This uncertainty means tent camps along Gaza's coast could become permanent fixtures for its residents.