Two years have passed since Israel's military launched attacks in the Gaza strip. About 1400 Palestinians were killed in the conflict, along with 13 Israelis. The fighting also left many people homeless. Two years ago, shellings and bombings shattered the lives of many living in the Gaza Strip.

In a three-week assault, named "Operation Cast Lead", the Israeli military launched a series of surprise attacks on Hamas posts in the coastal enclave.

About 1400 Palestinians, many of whom were civilians, lost their lives. Thousands of homes were destroyed.

Two years later, although the air of smoke gradually faded away, residents of the blockaded strip still feel stifled by Israel's blockade, unable to rebuild their homes.

Jihad's family home was destroyed in the war. They have been living in shacks and tents ever since.

He said, "They promised us that they were going to build for us. But nobody has done anything so far."

But what's worse may be having a house which withstood the fighting, but had family members scattered.

He said, "My son disappeared in the war. At that time, we were in our homes and I was surrounded by my children. But the war separated us. "

Others said it was the quiet before the conflict that they missed most.

He said, "We did have quiet before, but not now. Today, we only have the quiet which is not complete. There are still some rockets once in a while these days."

When any conflicts break out, it is the civilians that quickly become the most vulnerable group.

Houses can be rebuilt and social order restored, but for thousands of ordinary people, the trauma along with the war will not let go easily.

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