As the sun set over the northern part of Gaza City on Tuesday evening, Izzat Al-Qawasmeh and his 11-year-old son Mohamed made their way through debris to the top of a former residential building. Surrounding them were remnants of destroyed structures and a collection of white tents serving as temporary shelters. The duo, dressed in Santa Claus attire, had brought gifts to the tent city.
Mohamed carried a bunch of red and white balloons while Al-Qawasmeh played soulful tunes on his saxophone, a skill he had honed over two decades. Later that evening, he was scheduled to perform at a wedding. Al-Qawasmeh expressed, “With the beginning of the New Year, we wanted to bring happiness and hope to people.”
The vicinity near Al-Maqousi Towers in northern Gaza City used to be a vibrant neighborhood bustling with activity. However, on that Tuesday evening, it was eerily silent except for the echoes of Al-Qawasmeh’s saxophone reverberating through the deserted streets. Children gathered around as he played near the tents, creating a heartening atmosphere.
One young girl, dressed in red with pigtails, emerged from a tent accompanied by her smiling mother. Mohamed handed her a red balloon, which she joyfully waved at the small audience. Al-Qawasmeh, a father of three, emphasized the importance of children’s well-being and expressed hopes for a better year ahead in Gaza.
In another neighborhood, Al-Rimal, west of Gaza City, 32-year-old Mohammed Shatat shared aspirations for the New Year despite the challenges faced post-war. The uncertain future in Gaza following a ceasefire agreement brokered by the United States has left residents hoping for improved living conditions. Despite Israel’s commitments to aid deliveries, the pace has been slow, with ongoing reports of casualties and injuries.
Al-Qawasmeh’s optimistic outlook for the future is clouded by the current grim realities. He remains hopeful that better days lie ahead, believing in the eventual improvement of the situation. As he played his saxophone and Mohamed held up balloons, the children in the crowd joined in, clapping and dancing under the setting sun, fostering a sense of unity and joy amidst adversity.