Gaza's future remains uncertain as Palestinians and Israelis mark 1,000 days of war
It's the 1,000th day since a Hamas-led attack on Israel sparked the war in Gaza. Other conflicts have emerged in the region, and fragile ceasefires show scars of persistent attacks. Both Israelis and Palestinians are weary of the strain.
Cara Anna, Associated Press Cara Anna, Associated Press
The fate of over 2 million Palestinians in Gaza, largely displaced and living amid ruins, remains uncertain. Israeli forces controlled over half of the territory under the ceasefire that took effect on Oct. 10, but Israel's government has expanded that and says it aims to hold 70%.
The Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack on southern Israel killed about 1,200 people and took 251 hostage. All hostages or their remains have been released or handed over. Many recounted long-term starvation, physical and psychological abuse and, in some cases, sexual abuse.
Israel's retaliation has killed a total of 73,066 Palestinians as of Tuesday, Gaza's Health Ministry says. Despite the ceasefire, few people can get in or out of Gaza. Further ceasefire steps, including Hamas' disarmament and the immense task of reconstruction, have stalled.
"Much more needs to be done so that even a semblance of normality can come back, and we are far, far away from this," the International Committee of the Red Cross regional director, Nicolas von Arx, said this week.
