Ne’man Abu Jarad and his family have endured a tumultuous journey across the Gaza Strip over the past year, fleeing from Israeli conflicts that have left their lives shattered. Originally from northern Gaza, their home was a place of comfort, routine, and love. Ne’man reminisces about the family gatherings, the scent of flowers, and the sense of belonging they experienced in their now devastated home. The family was uprooted when Israel launched a campaign in retaliation for Hamas’ actions.
Following evacuation orders, the Abu Jarad family fled multiple times as their homes were destroyed and their lives drastically changed. They sought refuge in different locations, such as staying with Majida’s parents in Beit Lahiya and finding temporary shelter at a hospital in al-Quds. The continuous displacement forced them to adapt to cramped living conditions, lack of basic necessities, and constant fear of attacks.
Their journey led them to live in various places, from a crowded school in Nuseirat refugee camp to a tent city in Rafah. Life in these makeshift accommodations was harsh, with insufficient food, water, and sanitation facilities. The family’s struggles are a reflection of the larger crisis in Gaza, where thousands of families have been displaced, facing challenges of survival and uncertainty about the future.
The Abu Jarads eventually found themselves in Muwasi, a designated “humanitarian zone” with little aid or resources. Their living conditions deteriorated further, with a lack of hygiene, privacy, and basic comforts. Each move brought new hardships, pushing the family to the brink of despair as they longed for the safety and stability of their former life.
Amid the chaos and destruction, Ne’man, Majida, and their daughters hold onto memories of their past life and dream of returning home. The emotional toll of their ordeal is palpable, with despair and longing overshadowing their daily existence. As the conflict in Gaza persists, families like the Abu Jarads continue to endure unimaginable hardships, hoping for a resolution that would bring them solace and a sense of normalcy once again.
