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Escaping the Summer Heat: Gaza’s Beaches Offer Relief for Palestinians
As summer draws to a close and a new school year begins, thousands of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip flock to the seashore for one last day of seaside enjoyment. The scorching temperatures this summer have made living conditions even more unbearable for those already enduring the suffocating Israeli blockade, leading many to seek solace and relief at the beach.
For families in Gaza, the seashore has become their only escape. With the enclave’s infrastructure deteriorating over the years of siege, power outages have become a regular occurrence, making staying at home in the sweltering heat unbearable. As a result, families pack their umbrellas and chairs and head to the beaches, hoping to make the best of their situation.
Umm Khalil Abu al-Khair, a 43-year-old mother of six, explains, “The sea is our only refuge in Gaza. During the summer vacation, hours of power outages increased unbearably, coinciding with the sharp heatwave that hit the world, and the sea was our only destination.” For families like Umm Khalil’s, the beach offers an easy and inexpensive day out, as they opt for the free public beach instead of the paid ones.
While some families choose to visit the paid beach spots, many prefer the public beach, saving the entrance fee money for other essential uses. The concentration of people at the beach creates a festive atmosphere, with colorful umbrellas dotting the sand and vendors weaving their way through the crowds, selling beach toys, cold drinks, and snacks.
Not everyone has the luxury of a swimsuit, but that doesn’t stop them from seeking relief from the scorching heat. Whether in suitable attire or not, people plunge into the water, prioritizing cooling off over appearances. And for those who prefer to stay dry, they can rent a boat for a quick ride or enjoy a camel ride along the coastline.
Yamen Mohammad, a 36-year-old father of three, reveals his reasons for visiting the beach: “We live in the Gaza Strip [and] look for places of entertainment to spend time away from the pressures of life and economic deterioration and the reminders of Israel’s repeated aggressions on the Strip.” Like many others, he hopes for a calm school year without any wars or military escalations.
The Gaza Strip is home to approximately two million people, residing in an area of 365 square kilometers. This densely populated area has endured several Israeli assaults in the past few years, resulting in significant casualties and destruction. The residents also face daily power cuts, lasting an average of 12 hours a day, especially during periods of high demand such as the summer months.
As the Gaza Strip grapples with ongoing challenges, the seaside remains a symbol of hope and respite for Palestinians. Despite their difficult circumstances, families continue to find ways to enjoy moments of joy and relief at the beach, creating lasting memories amidst the struggles they face every day.