Gaza Residents Use Social Media as a Lifeline Amid Ongoing Conflict

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
19/12/2023 23h34

In the midst of the devastating conflict between Israel and Hamas, the people of Gaza have turned to social media platforms as a means to communicate with the outside world. With sporadic internet access and constant threats to their lives, individuals in Gaza have been sharing their experiences, seeking help, and expressing their emotions through platforms such as TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram.

The death toll rose steadily during the long-running conflict, with the Israeli government reporting around 1,200 casualties on their side, whereas close to 19,000 lives have been lost in Gaza, according to the respective governments.

One glimpse into the harrowing reality comes from a heartfelt post by an anesthesiologist and intensive care doctor, Husam Almanassra. In a selfie posted on X, dressed in his hospital scrubs, Almanassra expresses his frustration with the world seemingly abandoning those trapped in the conflict zone. Although it was not possible to reach him directly for comment, his colleague confirmed his survival and relocation to a United Nations shelter after escaping the raid on Shifa Hospital.

Meanwhile, Hasan, a social media influencer known for rescuing and caring for cats in Gaza, has shared infrequent updates since the outbreak of the war. In a recent post, she reveals the worsening situation in her neighborhood and the loss of more relatives. Concerned messages from friends flood her Facebook page, highlighting renewed bombings in her area, leaving many anxiously praying for her safety.

Tragically, filmmaker and photojournalist Roshdi Sarraj seemed to have foreseen the outcome, writing haunting words on social media before he himself fell victim to the conflict. Days before his death, Sarraj criticized the high number of journalists killed during Israel's bombardment. His untimely demise shook the media industry, prompting calls for an investigation from UNESCO.

Journalist Youmna ElSayed from Al Jazeera captured her family's perilous journey from Khan Yunis to Gaza City in a video, where she highlighted the constant bombardments that forced families to evacuate and later choose to return to die with dignity in their homes. Thankfully, ElSayed made it back safely and continues to report on the unfolding events.

Belal Aldabbour, a neurologist and online activist, expressed his fears of succumbing to the dire circumstances faced by his Palestinian patients. However, after a brief period of silence on social media, he reappeared and continues to actively denounce the crisis.

Bayan AbuSultan, a young graduate and office director for the Falasteniyeh Media Network, recorded a powerful video where she expressed her defiance and refusal to forgive those responsible for the ongoing bloodshed. Her message serves as a testament to the resilience and determination displayed by many in Gaza.

As the conflict rages on, the people of Gaza rely on social media as a lifeline to share their stories, seek assistance, and remind the world of their suffering. These voices, though sporadic, serve as a reminder of the immense challenges faced by those caught in the crossfire and the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to end their strife.

(Please note that the numbers and dates mentioned in this article are derived from the provided context and may not represent the current situation in Gaza.)

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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