Gaza buildings bombed by Israel become refuge for Palestinians

After two years of nonstop Israeli airstrikes that levelled buildings across the besieged Palestinian enclave, the Halawa family’s building, which still stands two stories above the rubble in Gaza City, is a rare example of a survivor.

One section has fallen apart, exposing bent metal rods that were once abutting a roof. To get to their home, the family used a concave set of sluggish wooden stairs, which the family had constructed. It continues to be a home despite the destruction.

More than 70, 000 Palestinians have been killed or damaged by Israel’s genocidal conflict in Gaza, causing the territory’s 2.3 million residents to flee.

Israel and its attacks continued in spite of an agreement to end them in October. Since then, it has infringed on the truce agreement by killing more than 400 Palestinians. Additionally, it prevented aid from entering completely.

Because Israel has had complete control over what enters and exits the enclave, reconstruction has not yet begun, and it is expected to take years. This results in struggling families like the Halawas to rebuild their lives.

Three months after the start of the war, on October 7, 2023, the family left their home. During the flimsy calm brought about by the truce, they came back. This family of seven opted for a tent life over living in their damaged home, especially since recent winter rains have flooded tent shelters.

While thin rays of light filtered through concrete fragments in one damaged room, Amani Halawa brewed coffee in a small tin over a fire. Amani, her husband Mohammed, and their children have made repairs by arranging pots and pans across the kitchen floor, utilizing concrete scraps, and utilizing hung backpacks from exposed metal rods.

A tree and messages to family members who have been separated by the conflict are displayed on the walls of the house.

Daily life continues in Gaza City’s damaged apartments, even as families wake up with the fear that their walls will collapse. According to health officials, at least 11 people died in December from building collapses in one week.

Sahar Taroush swept rubble from carpets in her home. As Bisan watched a movie beside the gaping holes in the wall, her daughter’s face flashed in front of a computer screen.