One of my most cherished spots in Gaza is the beachfront along the Mediterranean Sea. There was a small beach near the town of Khan Younis that wasn’t as crowded or developed as the more popular beaches like Gaza Beach. My family and I would visit this spot to escape the bustling city life and enjoy some peace by the sea.

The water was always cool and inviting, a respite from the summer heat. My family and I would spread out a blanket on the sand and have a simple picnic of fresh fruits and homemade bread. As the sun dipped below the horizon, we would watch the stars begin to emerge, their reflections shimmering on the water. It was a serene and almost magical time, where the worries of the world seemed to fade away.

When the temperature was cooler and the sunset painted the sky in hues of orange and pink, the salty breeze would mingle with the sounds of children playing and families enjoying picnics on the soft sand. The rhythmic sound of the waves breathing against the shore was soothing, and I felt a profound sense of connection to that place and to my family.

I recall that we spent a day at Gaza Beach last year. My family arrived early, the sky still painted in hues of dawn. As I walked along the shore, the cool morning breeze and the rhythmic sound of the waves set a serene tone. I watched families gather, children eagerly splashing the water. I joined in, sharing laughter and stories with new friends I met there, and later, we feasted on freshly grilled corn from a nearby stall. I felt a deep sense of peace and connection to the simple, beautiful moments of life.

I have another vivid memory of September 28, 2023, when my family set up a small barbecue and grilled fresh fish caught earlier that morning. As the fish sizzled, we shared stories and laughter, watching the waves gently move to the shore under the fading light of the sun. It was a moment of tranquility amidst the pulsing atmosphere of downtown of Khan Younis. Little did we know that all this would change so soon.

Before October 7, I used to sit at a small café by the sea in Gaza. The café was a simple yet charming place with a small counter where locals gathered to chat and enjoy their morning ritual. With the sun just beginning to rise, it would cast shiny glimmers over my face. I usually had a cup of freshly brewed coffee in hand, its rich aroma blending with the salty sea breeze. As I took a sip, the warmth of the coffee would contrast with the cool morning air, creating a comforting sensation.

Although the ocean is a place where many people find solace and a brief escape from the harsh realities of life, the ongoing conflict and blockade casts a shadow over this escape — turning what should be a peaceful place into a symbol of hardship and struggle. Since October 7 the beaches of Gaza have experienced significant changes due to the ongoing Israeli military forces operations, which have turned the coastline into a wasteland. Many of people that used to live there do not find it a safe haven anymore.

The beautiful beaches have been heavily impacted, with damage and debris. All beaches are crowded and strained under such circumstances — even the small beach near Khan Younis. Beaches are now associated with refugee tents, bad smells, pollution, diseases, and agony. As the humanitarian situation in Gaza has worsened, affecting everyday life, it has also further diminished the ability of residents to enjoy or even access the beach.

Despite the region’s ongoing conflict and hardships, the sea is deeply embedded in the cultural and historical identity of Gaza. It has been a source of livelihoods, inspiration, and community gatherings for generations. Culturally, the Gaza sea is cherished by Palestinians for its natural beauty and its role in local traditions and daily life. It represents a connection to our heritage, offering a space for communal gatherings and cultural events, and as a source of livelihood.

This fact is often overlooked, but the ocean is a vital source of our economy. Gaza has potential gas reserves off its coast; the most notable one is the Gaza Marine field. However, the development of these resources has been hindered by political and security issues. The gas reserves could potentially provide economic benefits and energy independence for the region, but the complex geopolitical situation continues to delay full exploitation.

Our cultural, historical, and even economic attachment to the sea underscores the resilience of the people, who continue to find meaning and solace in it even through the war and ongoing hardships. These moments of tranquility that I mention offer a poignant contrast to me with more difficult times of life we are experiencing now in Gaza. As the world around Gaza continues to change and Israel’s aggression in Gaza persists, the beaches, my beaches, remain a cherished memory and a symbol of hope.

Editor’s note: Rawand has created a GoFundMe campaign to help her family manage the devastating living circumstances in Gaza.