Women in Gaza Breathe Sigh of Relief as Ceasefire Brings Hope for a New Era

Breaking News: Gaza Ceasefire Brings Hope to Women on the Ground A fragile ceasefire has taken hold in Gaza, bringing an end to two years of war and allowing residents to finally breathe a sigh of relief. Two women, Shrouq Al Aila and her colleague, shared their experiences with NPR's Leila Fadel. Key Facts: The ceasefire was brokered on October 12, 2025 Gaza has been under siege since 2023, with frequent airstrikes and drone attacks The war has left thousands of Palestinians displaced and without access to basic necessities Immediate Impact and Response: Shrouq Al Aila, a Palestinian journalist, described the atmosphere in Gaza as "unreal" after the ceasefire. "I'm in hangover mode," she said. "It's like we're waking up from a nightmare." Her colleague echoed her sentiments, saying that the quiet skies are a welcome respite. Background Context: The war has had a devastating impact on women and children in Gaza. According to UN estimates, over 70% of the population relies on humanitarian aid. Women have been disproportionately affected by the conflict, with many forced to flee their homes or take on new roles as caregivers for displaced family members. What Happens Next: As the ceasefire holds, residents are beginning to rebuild and plan for the future. Shrouq Al Aila expressed optimism about what's to come. "We see a future," she said. "We're not just talking about rebuilding our homes, but also our lives." Her colleague added that women will play a crucial role in shaping the post-war landscape. The international community is closely watching the situation in Gaza, with many calling for sustained support and aid to help rebuild the devastated region. As one woman put it, "We're not just survivors; we're builders of a brighter future." *This story is developing. Information compiled from Npr reporting.*