A Glimpse into Life in Khan Yunis, Gaza: A Personal Account

The Daily Struggles of Survival

I hope this message finds you well. My name is Motasem Al-Farra, and I am writing to share a glimpse into the extreme hardships I have been enduring here in Khan Yunis, Gaza. For over 19 months, we have lived under relentless war, destruction, famine, and mass displacement.

Like many others, I have been trying to preserve a sense of hope and stability—especially for the sake of my family—even while internally struggling with exhaustion, hunger, and despair.

The Impact of the Blockade

It has now been 120 days since the border crossings were closed, placing the Gaza Strip under a total blockade. The closure has completely halted the entry of essential supplies, including food and medicine. This has added yet another layer of suffering to what is already an unbearable situation.

Forced Displacement: A Continuous Challenge

Personally, I have been forcibly displaced 11 times. Each time, the journey to find safety becomes more difficult, and the conditions more dire. Currently, we are living in a tent with almost no access to basic needs.

The absence of routine, work, or even the simplest activity has deeply affected my mental well-being.

Coping Mechanisms in Crisis

In an effort to cope and to support my family, I continue to volunteer and actively seek any work opportunities that might arise. However, these opportunities are extremely limited due to the collapse of the local economy and lack of liquidity.

Despite everything, I am doing my best to hold on. I believe that sharing our stories is one of the few tools left to us.

The Importance of Sharing Our Stories

I hope this message helps communicate even a fraction of what we are going through. The world needs to hear our voices.

Thank you for taking the time to read my message.

Warm regards,

Motasem Al-Farra

Khan Yunis, Gaza

Conclusion: A Call for Awareness

In conclusion, the situation in Gaza is dire. The blockade has severely impacted our lives, stripping away our basic rights and needs. We must continue to raise awareness about our plight.

By sharing our stories, we can foster understanding and compassion. It is crucial for the global community to recognize the struggles faced by individuals like myself.

Let us hope for a brighter future, one where peace and stability can return to our lives.

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