Breaking News: Israel and Hamas Reach Initial Gaza Ceasefire Agreement – Live Updates

For over 700 days, Hadil Abu Zaid has walked through the damaged streets of Gaza, carrying fragments of his former life after being displaced nine times. “I have no energy left for joy,” he shares. The echoes of grief, fear, and hunger linger, casting a shadow over his existence, especially after the recent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.

The pain is not just physical. After two long years of conflict that intensified following the Hamas-led attacks on October 7, 2023, many Palestinians now carry emotional scars that may take years to heal. “I have lost my family and friends,” Zaid reflects. “I have survived physically, but it will take years to truly survive emotionally.”

Fikr Shalltoot, director of Medical Aid for Palestinians in Gaza, felt conflicted upon hearing the news of the ceasefire. “I feel sad for all that we have lost over the past two years—the loved ones, homes, and the vibrant community that once thrived here.”

Mental health experts stress that the effects of war extend well beyond the battlefield. According to a recent report from the World Health Organization, more than 70% of individuals in conflict zones like Gaza report symptoms of depression and anxiety. Sadly, future generations will likely require extensive mental health support. As Amroo Al-Zeer, a protection officer with Project HOPE, states: “Beyond physical devastation, deep psychological wounds now threaten both the present and the future.”

In Gaza, homes lie in ruins, livelihoods have disappeared, and families are fractured. This situation highlights the urgent need for long-term mental health strategies.

The impact of such trauma is already evident on social media, where many Palestinians share their stories of loss and resilience. Trends on platforms like Twitter and Instagram reflect a community grappling with grief but also seeking to rebuild and find hope.

Understanding the depth of this crisis is crucial. As we witness the aftermath unfold, it’s clear that the path to recovery will be a long one, requiring compassion, support, and understanding from the global community.

For more insights on conflict and mental health, you can check the World Health Organization’s resources.

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