Gaza: Rats, dogs, and torn clothes among the ruined homes

Much of Gaza City lies in ruins after 15 months of conflict and relentless Israeli airstrikes, turning it into a shadow of its former self.

The rats and dogs scavenging through the ruins of her neighborhood in northern Gaza intensify Manal Al-Harsh’s despair upon returning to her shattered home. Although the ceasefire has paused Israeli bombardments, she remains anxious about her family’s safety, struggling to sleep at night.

Finding her children’s clothes amid the rubble in Jabalia feels like an impossible task. At 36, Al-Harsh has built a makeshift tent from salvaged blankets to provide some shelter for her and her children.

“We’re here, but we fear the rats and the dogs. There’s no safe place to settle, especially with kids. It’s hard,” she said, carefully stepping over the debris. She returned from the southern part of the enclave when the ceasefire began, only to discover her house was destroyed.

Much of Gaza City lies in ruins after 15 months of conflict and relentless Israeli airstrikes, turning it into a shadow of its former self.

“We barely sleep here, always afraid someone might find us. We’re exhausted and scared,” she shared. “I want to find some clothes for my children. We came with nothing, and life here is too expensive; we can’t afford to buy anything.”

Many returning residents, often carrying whatever belongings they have left after months of displacement, have walked over 20 km (12 miles) along the coastal highway. Like many displaced Palestinians, Al-Harsh faces uncertainty as she tries to salvage what remains. She managed to recover some clothes from the rubble, but they are in terrible condition.

“Everything is torn. Nothing is usable. No matter how much we search, it’s just stones,” she lamented.

“Death would be better,” Al-Harsh said, her voice heavy with despair.

Based on Reuters Story.