My name is Yousef Hamada, a journalist from Gaza City, and this is my story. I speak to you from the heart of the war, from a place I never imagined I would find myself. This step was not taken lightly; it came after immense loss and devastation. In this war, I lost so much, including my family home in northern Gaza and the business I worked so hard to build. My dreams were shattered, and then came the devastating news of my family’s home being bombed, along with the loss of loved ones and friends.

Today, I am in the field, away from my family, continuing to cover events amidst the destruction, while being distant from my injured and displaced relatives. Our homes have turned into tents. We once lived peaceful, comfortable lives, but now we face the harsh reality of displacement and uncertainty. Despite more than a year having passed since this catastrophic war, we are still living under the weight of ongoing destruction and continuous pain.

Your support will make a significant difference in helping us overcome this crisis, by ensuring the safety of my family and providing them with much-needed aid after more than a year of this devastating conflict.