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'I Will Keep Reporting Until The Very End': A Palestinian Journalist's Harrowing Account Of Survival

Hashem Zimmo, a journalist reporting on the war in Gaza, shares what life has been like for her and many Palestinians during these challenging times.

A Palestinian journalist carries away a child as other photojournalists assist a falling woman
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We had to leave our homes in Gaza because the Israeli Army in an article said it was safer in Southern Gaza. But, sadly, there is no safe place for us, Palestinians. Israel sees everyone—kids, women, men, journalists, or doctors—as targets. 

I will always remember this one morning. Israel began bombing the eye specialty hospital near my house. It was so dangerous that I had to leave my home immediately. This was tough for me. And I had to move to a completely different area because the hospital near my house was completely demolished because of the Israeli attacks. 

After moving to Southern Gaza, all of us, Palestinians, had to stay in special places that were designated as United Nations shelters. I will never forget the things I saw as a journalist covering the war. The Israeli army destroyed houses where people lived. I got a small injury on my foot. This made it hard for me to work for a while, but I am determined to keep reporting on what is happening until the very end. 

Beyond physical injuries, I have lost many friends and family members, including my brother, my aunt's son and her husband, and my cousin's son along with his children. Being in a different area now, I can't connect with anyone online or talk to people outside. It feels like our voices can only be heard by us. Life has changed a lot for us since October, with so much destruction in homes, schools, hospitals, and shops. 

There is very limited access to food, water, and electricity. Life is tough. The enemy told people in North Gaza to move to the South in Khan Yunis and Rafah because it's crowded. People are suffering from skin and respiratory diseases as well as liver–related problems. 

It is a difficult time for us. It is getting worse day by day.

(As told to Anisha Reddy)