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 building that once housed numerous residents. The surrounding area was filled with destroyed buildings and white tents where people now reside.
Dressed as Santa Claus, the father and son brought gifts to the tent city. Mohamed carried a bunch of red and white balloons while Al-Qawasmeh played poignant tunes on his saxophone, a profession he had for two decades before the war and continues today, performing at a wedding later that night.
“We wanted to spread happiness and hope with the start of the New Year,” Al-Qawasmeh expressed.
The vicinity around Al-Maqousi Towers in northern Gaza City used to be a lively neighborhood bustling with people, vehicles, and shops. However, on this Tuesday evening, the streets were mostly deserted as Al-Qawasmeh’s saxophone echoed through the quiet surroundings.
Near some tents, with a heap of rubble in the background, a group of children gathered around as Al-Qawasmeh played his saxophone. A young girl in red emerged from a tent, joyfully accepting a red balloon handed to her by Mohamed.
“Our children’s well-being is our priority,” Al-Qawasmeh, a father of three, emphasized.
In another area, Al-Rimal, west of Gaza City, Palestinians shared their aspirations for the upcoming year. Despite the challenges faced, they remain resilient and hopeful for a future that includes rebuilding and a fresh start.
The ceasefire in Gaza, initiated by the United States in October, has left the future of a peace plan uncertain. Life conditions in the territory have not improved significantly, with limited aid trucks entering Gaza daily. Casualties and injuries from Israeli strikes since the ceasefire have been reported, with ongoing challenges and restrictions hindering progress.
Al-Qawasmeh remains optimistic, believing that better days are ahead despite the current uncertainties. As he played his saxophone and Mohamed held up balloons, the children in the crowd joined in, clapping and dancing under the setting sun.