Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant’s warnings, issued shortly after Hamas’ attack on Oct. 7 last year, have now turned into reality. Six months after a devastating war, Gaza has been left in ruins.
Israeli forces launched a massive operation six months ago. They bombed homes, government buildings, schools, and even Hamas’ facilities. Then they invaded, taking over large parts of Gaza and leaving destruction in their wake.
War in its seventh month claimed 33,173 lives, mostly women and children, and left over 75,750 injured, with many still missing. The toll on Gazans is immeasurable.
For Ashraf Salem of Beit Lahia, the loss of 8 siblings and 27 family members is a nightmare he can’t shake. Their fleeing from Beit Lahia offered no refuge; they perished in airstrikes on Sheikh Radwan.
Salem mourns the 120 lives lost in an instant, still buried under rubble. The Salem family is one of 200 obliterated by Israeli raids, many erased from records.
Israel’s strikes targeted families, with over 70% of casualties being women and children. Palestinian data reveals 4 children killed by Israel every hour.
These incomplete numbers reflect not just ongoing conflict, but countless Gazans trapped beneath the debris. Mahmoud Basal of Gaza’s Civil Defense laments their diminishing ability to rescue the trapped.
With Gaza destroyed and its people living in large, mobile tents, life has regressed to a basic state without electricity, water, or proper communication.
Basil Abu Nada, a young resident of Safatawi in northern Gaza, walks 3 km daily to get water for his family of 13. He waits in line every morning, knowing the water isn't safe to drink.
“Life today is all about these tough conditions,” Abu Nada told Asharq Al-Awsat.
The struggle isn't just for water. Gazans queue up for essentials like electricity from solar-powered sources, while neighbors help each other charge phones and light up homes at night.
Samir Al-Araawi, from Jabaliya in northern Gaza, described a daily routine of scavenging, queuing for necessities, and facing uncertainty.
“After 184 days, life is just about surviving,” he said.
