Exclusive Report from Gaza Four Months After Ceasefire
In a revealing podcast episode from Sky News, journalist Richard Engel provides a firsthand account of conditions in Gaza, four months following the implementation of a ceasefire agreement. The report, titled "Not a Palestinian in sight," offers critical insights into the ongoing situation in the region, highlighting the complex dynamics between Israeli forces and Hamas operatives.
Military Access and Journalistic Constraints
Engel entered Gaza under the escort of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), which remains the sole method for international journalists to access the Strip due to security restrictions. This arrangement underscores the tight control maintained over media movements in the area, raising questions about transparency and independent reporting in conflict zones.
Discovery of Hamas Infrastructure
During his visit, Engel was shown a Hamas tunnel that the IDF claims was operational until recently. This tunnel serves as a stark reminder of the militant group's continued presence and operational capabilities, despite the ceasefire. The revelation points to the challenges in achieving lasting peace, as underground networks potentially facilitate ongoing activities.
Scenes of Widespread Destruction
Engel describes to co-host Yalda Hakim a landscape of complete devastation, with buildings reduced to rubble and communities displaced. The destruction paints a grim picture of the war's impact on civilian infrastructure and daily life, emphasizing the humanitarian toll that persists even after hostilities have officially ceased.
Unresolved Issues and Military Presence
The podcast delves into key unresolved questions, such as why Israeli troops have not fully withdrawn from Gaza and the fate of Palestinians forced to leave their homes. These issues highlight the fragile nature of the ceasefire and the ongoing tensions that threaten to reignite conflict at any moment.
Broader Context: Ukraine War and Upcoming Interviews
In addition to the Gaza coverage, Engel and Hakim reflect on the war in Ukraine, marking four years since Russia's full-scale invasion. This segment provides a comparative perspective on global conflicts and their enduring consequences. Listeners can also anticipate Yalda Hakim's interview with iconic American filmmaker Ken Burns, scheduled for release on Thursday, 26 February 2026.
Audience Engagement and Additional Content
The podcast encourages audience interaction, inviting questions for Richard Engel and Yalda Hakim via email at theworld@sky.uk. For those preferring visual content, the episode is available on Sky News' YouTube channel, offering multiple platforms for accessing this in-depth reporting.
This comprehensive account sheds light on the realities of post-ceasefire Gaza, combining on-the-ground observations with analysis of broader geopolitical issues, making it a must-listen for those seeking to understand the complexities of modern warfare and its aftermath.
