Maliha Lodi

The difference is vast, like heaven and hell.

Before the war, God be praised, we were very well off.

Now, God be praised that we are alive.

Gaza's markets are now bustling.

Late last year, global hunger experts said there was no longer a famine in the Strip, with more aid allowed to enter by Israel, as well as private imports.

Still, with little income and nearly the entire population living in poverty, one shopper, Alaa Hijazi, says many are feeling the strain this holiday.

praying in the ruins.

The iconic Great Omri Mosque was Gaza's biggest and oldest.

Most mosques in the strip were destroyed or damaged in the war.

Israel says Palestinian armed groups operated in civilian sites, including places of worship, which Hamas denies.

Palestinians now resort to praying in special tents or what's left of their mosques.

Abu Bilal al-Hirji was pleased to see crowds back at Salah ad-Din Mosque in Gaza City.

At this time of spiritual reflection, there's fear about what happens next.

The ceasefire still looks fragile, with regular deadly Israeli airstrikes and claims of violations by both sides.

A US peace plan is slow to take effect.

Struggling to find the usual joy in Ramadan, many Gazans are seeking comfort in its religious rituals.