Overview

• Palestinians in Gaza are observing Ramadan under a fragile ceasefire following over 15 months of devastating conflict between Israel and Hamas.
• The ceasefire has allowed some respite, with communal meals and limited celebrations bringing moments of joy despite widespread destruction and loss.
• Israel halted aid to Gaza on Sunday, pressuring Hamas to accept a new ceasefire proposal, a move criticized by Egypt as 'using starvation as a weapon.'
• Many Gazans express mixed emotions, finding solace in the temporary peace but fearing the instability of the truce and the possibility of renewed violence.
• The war, which began in October 2023, has killed tens of thousands of Palestinians and displaced many, leaving the region struggling with severe humanitarian and economic crises.