Gaza Gardeners Plant Hope Amidst Bombs

In central Gaza, as the sounds of explosions grew closer, Hanya Aljamal observed an elderly neighbor tending to his garden. His act of preparing the soil for new seeds, amidst the ongoing conflict, struck her as a profound symbol of hope. She captured this and other contrasting scenes of life during wartime from her balcony.

Over four months, Hanya's audio diaries documented the stark realities of life under bombardment. She recorded impromptu volleyball games, the sound of flying shrapnel, and the construction of a tent village as military actions intensified. These recordings painted an intimate picture of resilience and the human spirit.

As the conflict wore on, Hanya questioned her own survival. However, a fragile peace agreement was eventually reached. This de-escalation of hostilities led to a dramatic and positive shift in Hanya's personal situation, offering a much-needed respite from the pervasive fear and destruction.