In a rare account of life inside Gaza, 65-year-old Qassem Ali, an American citizen who recently left the besieged territory, provides a harrowing and insight into the daily struggles faced by its residents. With limited media coverage and frequent communication disruptions, Ali's testimony sheds light on the dire circumstances endured by the people of Gaza.

Born and raised in the northeastern village of Beit Hanoun, Ali, who worked as a journalist, recently visited his 90-year-old mother in northern Gaza when the conflict escalated on October 7. Hamas insurgents crossed into Israel, resulting in the death of over 1,400 people and the hostage-taking of more than 200 others.

Ali recalls the morning the war began, describing how he found himself on the rooftop garden of his family home. Aware of the severity of the situation, he hastily took a shower, fearing he might meet his demise while naked. Alongside his mother, he sought refuge in his sister's apartment in Gaza City, only to face relentless missile attacks, prompting them to flee once again. As the days blended together, Ali paints a grim picture of the endless chaos and confusion during times of conflict.

Having witnessed and covered previous wars in Gaza, Ali emphasizes that this particular conflict is unlike anything he has ever experienced. He describes it as "more than a war," emphasizing the heightened level of violence and devastation.

Since the onset of the conflict four weeks ago, the Gaza Ministry of Health reports that over 10,000 people have lost their lives. The staggering toll highlights the immense scale of destruction inflicted upon the Palestinian enclave.

Despite the unfolding horrors and his U.S. citizenship, Ali initially chose to remain in Gaza to protect and support his family. However, a phone conversation with his 13-year-old daughter, Nadia, living in Canada, compelled him to reconsider. Despite not receiving any assistance from the American government, Ali relied on his American passport to secure his departure, crossing into Egypt through the Rafah border last Friday.

The journey to safety was treacherous, involving hours of travel, numerous checkpoints, and thorough searches. Finally reaching Cairo, Ali expressed the urgent need for a long-overdue shower after enduring 26 days without basic hygiene. Speaking from Cairo on Sunday, Ali revealed plans to continue his journey to Malta.

Looking ahead, Ali intends to reunite with his daughter and other children in Canada, but he acknowledges the need for time to heal, both mentally and physically, before doing so. He seeks to shield his children from the trauma and horrors he has witnessed, understanding the importance of preserving their innocence and wellbeing.

While Qassem Ali managed to escape the ongoing conflict, his testimony serves as a poignant reminder of the countless children in Gaza who have no choice but to endure life amidst war. His account sheds light on the pressing need for international attention and assistance to alleviate the suffering of the people in Gaza and work towards a sustainable resolution to the long-standing conflict.