At just 11 years old, Zakaria resides in Gaza, where the ongoing war has exposed him to a multitude of harrowing sights. Instead of attending school like most children his age, Zakaria dedicates his time to volunteering at al-Aqsa, one of the few operational hospitals in the area.
As ambulances arrive at the hospital, carrying casualties of the conflict between Israel and Hamas, Zakaria swiftly maneuvers through the crowds to assist in admitting and treating the incoming patients. Witnessing the aftermath of the violence firsthand, Zakaria recounts the tragic loss of several of his schoolmates and chilling encounters, like watching a young boy succumb to flames following an Israeli strike.
For nine months, we closely followed Zakaria and other young individuals while producing our BBC documentary, “Gaza: How to Survive a Warzone.” Despite facing restrictions on international journalists entering Gaza, my colleague Yousef Hammash and I remotely directed the documentary from London, collaborating with local cameramen and utilizing various communication methods.
Our objective was to shed light on the daily struggles of Gazan civilians navigating the horrors of war. Our filming concluded shortly before the recent ceasefire, capturing the resilience of three children and a new mother amidst the turmoil.
The conflict in Gaza has resulted in a devastating loss of lives, with over 48,200 fatalities reported by the health ministry. Escalated retaliatory actions followed Hamas’ attacks on southern Israel, leading to a staggering death toll and hostages taken.
Our documentary focused on the challenges faced by children, including sourcing food, finding shelter, and maintaining a sense of normalcy amid the chaos. Abdullah, 13, shares his story in fluent English, emphasizing the importance of education amidst adversity. Renad, 10, showcases her culinary skills on TikTok with her sister, garnering a substantial following despite ingredient shortages due to the war.
We also spotlighted Rana, a young mother displaced multiple times and residing near the hospital with her children and parents. The film provides a glimpse into the resilience and resourcefulness of individuals striving to survive in a conflict-ridden environment.
In the heart-wrenching chaos of Gaza, amidst the echoes of conflict and the cries of the wounded, lies a beacon of hope in the form of a young boy named Zakaria. Nestled within the walls of al-Aqsa hospital, the sole functioning medical facility in central Gaza as lauded by British doctors in January 2024, Zakaria’s presence is both poignant and profound.
Zakaria, a mere child in age but mature beyond his years in experience, navigates the corridors of the hospital with a sense of purpose and determination. While not a trained medical professional, his eagerness to assist and alleviate the suffering of others is unwavering. Whether he is lending a hand to journalists, aiding the injured on stretchers, or meticulously cleaning ambulances in moments of respite, Zakaria’s commitment to his makeshift role is unwavering.
In a place where the specter of hunger and scarcity looms large, Zakaria’s resilience shines brightly. With no school to attend and his family struggling to make ends meet, Zakaria has forged his path within the confines of the hospital. Sleeping wherever he can find solace, be it the CT scan room, a journalist’s tent, or the back of an ambulance, Zakaria’s spirit remains unbroken.
His bond with the paramedics, especially with Said who has taken him under his wing, is a testament to the profound impact Zakaria has made within the hospital’s walls. Despite his youthful appearance, Zakaria yearns to be treated as an equal, eager to learn and contribute in any way he can. The staff, recognizing his dedication and empathy towards the patients, have even bestowed upon him a miniature set of blue scrubs, a token of appreciation that fills Zakaria with pride.
As Zakaria grapples with the harsh realities of his surroundings, his dreams of becoming a paramedic serve as a guiding light amid the turmoil. The beach outing with Said offers a fleeting moment of respite, a chance for Zakaria to savor the simple joys of life amidst the backdrop of conflict and uncertainty. Yet, beneath his bravado lies a poignant acknowledgment of the toll that witnessing death and destruction has taken on his young soul.
In the midst of turmoil and adversity, Zakaria’s unwavering resolve to carve out a future beyond the confines of Gaza speaks volumes about his resilience and determination. As he dreams of a life beyond the hospital walls, his aspirations symbolize the undying hope that flickers amidst the darkness of conflict.
Zakaria’s story is a testament to the indomitable spirit of the human heart, a poignant reminder of the power of compassion and resilience in the face of unfathomable adversity. In a world marred by conflict and despair, Zakaria stands as a beacon of hope, a testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit in the most trying of circumstances.
As the world bears witness to his journey, may Zakaria’s story serve as a poignant
