The January 19 ceasefire, brokered with promises of stability and rebuilding, quickly became another chapter of unfulfilled Israeli commitments. Initially designed as a phased agreement, it aimed to stop hostilities, deliver aid, return hostages — both those captured on October 7th and some of the almost 10,000 Palestinian hostages, many of which are women and children, being detained by Israel — and facilitate reconstruction. However, over 350 violations by Israeli forces have been reported, including military incursions, airstrikes, and the obstruction of aid. At the end of phase one, Israel is now trying to use the withholding of food as a bargaining chip, going against the terms of the ceasefire to which all parties previously agreed.

Progress back in Gaza City is going slowly for Muhammad and his family. While their home was bombed, they’ve managed to cover part of the shell with hardened nylon shade material to protect them to some degree from Gaza’s winter weather. While far from a permanent solution, this improvement has brought at least a little comfort to the family as they navigate incredibly challenging circumstances.