Gaza, a place already grappling with challenges like limited electricity and scarce resources, has become even more inaccessible. Over two dozen of Almadhoun’s family members are huddled in the northern parts of Gaza, seeking protection from the ongoing airstrikes under a staircase.
The streets outside are filled with an eerie silence, broken only by the occasional cries of hungry cats. The air is thick with the smell of destruction and despair. Even essential services like ambulances and fire departments are not spared, making the situation even more dire for ordinary civilians.
The trauma of the current situation is compounded by the memories of past conflicts. Almadhoun’s family, like many others, is caught in a cycle of displacement and fear that dates back to events like the 1948 Nakba. The younger generation, who had only heard tales of these events, are now experiencing them firsthand.
Amidst all this, Almadhoun received a heart-wrenching message from his nephew, Amro. Despite his deep love for Gaza, the ongoing conflict has made Amro consider leaving his homeland for good.
Almadhoun’s account is not just a personal story but a reflection of the larger Palestinian experience. It’s a call for empathy, understanding, and most importantly, peace. The continuous crisis in Gaza makes the dream of a peaceful future seem distant, but it’s a dream that many, like Almadhoun, hold onto with hope.