Life in Gaza: A Year of Cautious Ceasefire
Life in Gaza Under Ceasefire
A mother mourns her son lost in an Israeli airstrike at Al-Shifa Hospital, Gaza City, on November 20, 2025. This poignant moment reflects the harsh reality many Palestinians face despite a ceasefire. Photographer Anas Baba captures these moments of grief and resilience in the region.
Ceasefire Agreement and Its Challenges
President Donald Trump’s intervention in 2025 facilitated a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Israel agreed to halt its assault, and Hamas released Israeli hostages on October 10, 2025. Despite promises, no peacekeeping force has arrived, and reconstruction efforts are absent.
Currently, Israel controls about 70% of Gaza, restricting over 2 million Palestinians to coastal areas. Continued Israeli targeting of Hamas during the ceasefire has resulted in over 1,400 Palestinian deaths, with 500 women and children affected.
Humanitarian Conditions in Gaza
Bombing has decreased, providing some relief. Northern Gaza has witnessed a reversal of last year’s famine due to increased food supplies. International efforts have helped provide some stability.
“The resilience of the Palestinian people is evident in the rebuilding efforts following the ceasefire.” — Anas Baba
Daily Life and Struggle
Anas Baba documents moments across Gaza post-ceasefire. The initial withdrawal of Israeli forces on October 10, 2025, allowed Palestinians to revisit destroyed homes.
Freed prisoners were met with joy in Khan Younis. Tragically, children were injured by shrapnel at Al-Shifa Hospital on October 23, 2025. Many civilians, including children, died during airstrikes on November 20, 2025.
Efforts for Normalcy
TechMed Gaza introduced virtual reality to assist children in trauma recovery. Despite difficulties, families remain resilient, with humanitarian aid distribution ongoing as of November 25, 2025.
The story of Bayan, aged 10, highlights the personal tragedies. She was shot in December by Israeli troops, further illustrating the dire conditions in makeshift shelters.
Community Resilience
Creativity persists, with Palestinian female artists using painting as therapy. As families struggle to survive in inadequate shelters, community support continues to shine through art, prayer, and holidays.
Despite hardships, children and adults find solace in collective cultural acts, including Ramadan prayers, Christmas celebrations, and Eid festivities.
Continued Struggles
Political and civilian movements are restricted by Israeli forces. Food aid remains accessible yet supervised. Recreational activities like chess tournaments offer an escape from daily pressures.
The ongoing conflict shapes the landscape of Gaza, as seen in the survival strategies of its people. From water collection to mourning periods, life carries on amidst adversity.
Long-term Effects
Anas Baba’s photographs remind us of ongoing casualties and resilience. As ceasefire conditions persist, the search for solutions continues.
The call for global awareness and support strengthens, urging humanitarian relief and peaceful resolutions for Gaza’s future.