Displacement Crisis in Gaza: Lives Under Rubble and Shelters
The humanitarian situation in Gaza has reached a critical point as families struggle to survive amidst the ruins of their homes. Many Gazans, like Hajja Zakiya, are forced to live in makeshift shelters constructed from the remnants of bombed buildings. Zakiya, displaced from Beit Lahia, described her living conditions as terrifying, with a slanted floor and leaking ceilings that turn her home into a swamp during rain. She dreams of reuniting with her children and returning to a semblance of normalcy, even if it means living in a “chicken coop” on her property.
The Abu al-Hasna family, once prosperous merchants, now find themselves living in a dilapidated café, struggling with the harsh realities of displacement. Ismail Abu al-Hasna lamented the loss of their former life and the deaths of three sons in airstrikes, yet he clings to the hope of returning to their land, stating, “What is the benefit of a palace within range of missiles?”
In another part of Gaza City, Umm Rabie and her family have taken refuge in a destroyed gas station, sharing the cramped space with over ten other families. The lack of basic necessities, such as water and electricity, has made their situation dire. Despite the overwhelming challenges, Umm Rabie holds onto the hope of returning to her home in Jabalia, even as she mourns the loss of her firstborn son.
The Umm Deeb family, displaced just a month ago, faces similar hardships. They have resorted to sleeping on an old rug and rely on water distribution vehicles for their daily needs. The constant fear of stray animals and the dangers of their surroundings keep them on edge, highlighting the severe impact of the ongoing conflict on civilian life in Gaza.
