More than one million individuals in Gaza face "emergency levels of food insecurity" or worse, as the ongoing war has taken a devastating toll on the region. The conflict, sparked by a surprise attack by Hamas into Israel, has resulted in the deaths of at least 47,000 people, predominantly civilians. In response to these tragic events, an array of dire conditions has emerged in Gaza, including exorbitant food prices and widespread destruction of infrastructure and homes.
The war began with a surprise attack by Hamas on Israel, leading to the deaths of 1,200 people and the abduction of 250 hostages. Since then, Gaza has been gripped by a humanitarian crisis. Reports indicate that over 90% of Gaza's homes have been damaged or destroyed, leaving many people displaced multiple times within the 16-month conflict. The rubble, contaminated with toxic chemicals and unexploded bombs, poses a significant challenge for future reconstruction efforts. Projections suggest that clearing this debris would require a fleet of 100 lorries working for 15 years.
Despite these challenges, some signs of resilience and hope have appeared. A third of households surveyed reported improved access to food, according to the UN. Nevertheless, many residents continue to subsist on little more than bread and tinned vegetables, as food prices have risen to 12 times their pre-war levels. A few enterprising individuals have opened restaurants as a means to survive economically amidst the chaos.
One such establishment is the al-Sawafiri restaurant in Khan Younis. Its owner, Raed al-Sawafiri, risked death or injury to furnish his restaurant but found success despite the odds.
“The response from people was amazing, but we had to flee the [Israeli] attack on Rafah and move to the coast. Finally, I decided to try again in Khan Younis and, thanks be to God, we have had success.” – Raed al-Sawafiri
The restaurant not only serves as a place for sustenance but also as a symbol of perseverance and a step toward normalcy for its patrons.
“We used to go out often, and could give our children whatever they asked for. But now we have lost our house and all our savings, so it is very difficult. For this one evening, we can forget our troubles.” – Nivin Qadeh
Nivin Qadeh describes how the war has drastically altered her family's lifestyle. Her sentiments echo those of many Gazans who yearn for a return to pre-war normalcy amidst continued uncertainties.
The economic impact of the war is starkly evident. Many Gazans struggle with accessing basic necessities like food and water.
“Sometimes, I had to walk long distances to fetch water, and at times, I would search in areas like Deir al-Balah and Rafah and buy the necessary equipment at any cost, and it was hard to find skilled chefs and quality spices, but I did not give up,” – Raed al-Sawafiri
Raed's determination mirrors the broader resilience displayed by the people of Gaza. Despite fears that the conditional ceasefire might not hold permanently, they strive to reclaim small joys and moments of peace.
“Now, we feel some relief thanks to the ceasefire, and we walk the streets feeling more at ease. We are now able to go out to enjoy shawarma or sit in cafes, which is really important because we need to find ways to release our emotions after such a long period of tension.” – Ahmed Hamad
Yet, apprehensions linger about what the future holds.
“There are still fears of the war returning because the ceasefire is conditional and not permanent. I am very afraid that … the war will return as before. What will happen next is unknown, but we make the most of every minute during the ceasefire to feel a little psychological stability and have life return to normal, even if just a little.” – Nivin Qadeh
While some express hope for a brighter future, others are already planning their departure from Gaza due to safety concerns.
“I will be one of the first to leave when the crossing opens for travellers, because the situation here has become unsafe, and I prefer to go to a safer place.” – Ahmed Hamad