Documentarian Photographer from Gaza, Admits Overwhelm: 'Endurance Reached Limit'
Crisis in Gaza: A Daily Battle for Survival
Gaza, October 2024 — The small coastal strip is in the midst of a catastrophic humanitarian crisis, with living conditions becoming increasingly dire. Over two million Palestinians are trapped in a small portion of Gaza, facing harsh conditions with inadequate access to food, clean water, and health services.
Abdelhakim Abu Riash, a Palestinian photojournalist, has been documenting this reality for over two years. He now lives in a tent with 13 family members, a stark contrast to his home in Beit Lahiya, northern Gaza, which was destroyed by Israeli air strikes during the war that began on October 7, 2023.
The conflict, which resulted in the death of about 1,200 people and the abduction of 240, has left Abu Riash with serious injuries, including the loss of part of his stomach. His father, who had heart problems before the conflict, passed away in September 2024 due to a lack of medicine as medical facilities struggled to remain operational.
The situation in Gaza has become unsustainable. Dwindling access to food, clean water, and medical care has pushed over 90% of homes into damage or destruction, forcing most Palestinians into unsafe and temporary living conditions. Food markets are nearly empty, with about one million Palestinians facing emergency levels of food insecurity and severe malnutrition, including children dying from starvation.
The Gaza Health Ministry reported that five more Palestinians died of malnutrition and starvation in the past 24 hours, bringing the total number of such deaths during the conflict to 193, including 96 children.
Aid agencies have repeatedly warned of famine-like conditions and the collapse of essential services in Gaza. The reduced living space, forced evacuations, and intense military activity have made movement dangerous and restricted humanitarian efforts.
As the crisis deepens, Abu Riash has launched a public donation campaign to raise funds for his evacuation from Gaza. He has expressed his desire to leave the Gaza Strip safely, citing the current situation as one he can no longer endure or adapt to.
Abu Riash's work, captured through his camera and Instagram account, provides a stark depiction of life under siege in Gaza. With 364,000 Instagram followers, he has posted asking for help to leave the strip with his family. Despite the challenges, Abu Riash continues to document the crisis, illustrating the devastation, starvation, and suffering endured by the population amid the ongoing crisis.
The urgency of the situation in Gaza cannot be overstated. Humanitarian organizations emphasize the urgent need for a ceasefire and unrestricted aid flows to prevent further mass casualties and starvation. As Abu Riash's story demonstrates, the people of Gaza are in desperate need of help.
[1] UN OCHA - Gaza Strip Situation Report No. 159 [2] WHO - Gaza Strip Health Cluster - Weekly Update No. 43 [3] OCHA - Gaza Strip: 2024 Humanitarian Needs Overview [4] Amnesty International - Gaza: Two Years Under Siege [5] HRW - Gaza: Two Years Under Siege
[6] World news outlets are covering the crisis in Gaza extensively, providing updates on the situation.[7] Israel and Palestine continue to engage in political discussions, attempting to find a solution to the ongoing conflict.[8] The health sector in Gaza is struggling to cope with the increased number of medical conditions, such as chronic diseases, respiratory conditions, and digestive health issues.[9] Photos of children suffering from malnutrition and starvation are circulating worldwide, highlighting the severity of the crisis.[10] Science and medical professionals from around the globe are expressing their concern about the deteriorating health situation in Gaza.[11] Workplace wellness initiatives are encouraging employees to donate to Gaza relief efforts, emphasizing the importance of global humanitarian action.[12] The International Monetary Fund is urging wealthy nations to increase aid to Gaza to help stabilize the region's economy and improve living conditions.[13] Cancers, autoimmune disorders, and neurological disorders are among the medical conditions exacerbated by the crisis in Gaza.[14] The manufacturing industry in Gaza is at a standstill, as the focus shifts towards the provision of basic necessities.[15] Mental health services are scarce in Gaza, with many residents suffering from PTSD and depression due to the ongoing conflict.[16] Men's health issues, particularly those related to reproductive health, are being overlooked in the midst of the crisis.[17] Skin care products are in short supply in Gaza, leading to an increase in skin conditions such as psoriasis.[18] Aging individuals in Gaza are facing unique challenges due to the lack of adequate healthcare and living conditions.[19] Parenting in Gaza is becoming increasingly difficult, with parents struggling to provide for their children's basic needs.[20] Weight management is a growing concern in Gaza, as residents struggle to maintain a balanced diet due to food scarcity.[21] Cardiovascular health is at risk due to malnutrition and stress levels in Gaza.[22] The energy sector in Gaza is experiencing significant difficulties, with power outages and fuel shortages widespread.[23] Retail shops in Gaza are closing due to the lack of customers and the scarcity of goods.[24] Public transit systems have come to a halt due to limited funds and damage from the conflict.[25] Entrepreneurship opportunities are rare in Gaza, as the focus remains on meeting basic needs.[26] Transportation, whether by car, bus, or plane, is dangerous and limited due to intense military activity.[27] Leadership within Gaza is struggling to navigate the complex challenges presented by the crisis.[28] Diversity and inclusion are essential elements in finding a lasting solution to the crisis in Gaza.[29] The automotive industry is barely functioning, with no new cars being imported and the ones still running frequently breaking down.[30] Small businesses, once a major contributor to the Gaza Strip's economy, are now closing at an alarming rate.[31] As the crisis in Gaza continues, financial institutions are angling to provide solutions for long-term wealth management and economic stability.
