The aftermath of the Gaza conflict has left the region facing unprecedented challenges as it embarks on the monumental task of rebuilding from near-total destruction. With over 70% of Gaza’s infrastructure either damaged or obliterated since October 2023, residents are returning to a landscape of devastation. For many, the process of starting over feels daunting, with essential services such as water, electricity, and housing almost entirely absent.
The destruction in the north, particularly in Jabaliya, exemplifies the scale of the crisis. Once home to 200,000 people, this area has been reduced to rubble, leaving its population reliant on makeshift shelters and urgent humanitarian aid. The Hamas-run Gaza government has issued an appeal for 135,000 tents and caravans, but the supply is far outstripped by the demand. While the UN’s Palestinian refugee agency, Unrwa, has managed to deliver 20,000 tents and essential items stuck at the border, sheltering the displaced remains an overwhelming challenge.
As residents attempt to return home, many face secondary displacement. Families who sought refuge with relatives in the south are being forced to vacate as homeowners reclaim their properties, adding to tensions and overcrowding. Journalist Ghada el-Kurd notes the pressure this creates, with multiple families crammed into single buildings, leading to a lack of space and privacy.
Economic strains are also mounting. The influx of returning refugees has already driven up market prices, further burdening a population grappling with limited resources. Water and electricity shortages compound the crisis, highlighting the urgent need for a robust reconstruction effort.
Despite these hardships, a sense of hope persists among some. The return to familiar areas, such as Beit Hanoun in the north, is celebrated by those yearning to rebuild their lives with dignity. However, the long-term outlook remains uncertain. Without swift rehabilitation and tangible improvements, many Gazans may consider leaving altogether. Around 150,000 people have already left the territory since the war began, and journalist el-Kurd predicts that more will follow if rebuilding efforts falter.
International debates about the future of Gaza, including controversial suggestions like relocating its population to neighboring countries, have met resistance. Jordan and Egypt firmly reject such proposals, emphasizing the need for Gazans to rebuild their lives in their homeland.
For those staying behind, the journey to recovery is fraught with challenges, but many hold on to the hope of a brighter future in Gaza.
