'This time, we stay': Palestinian families refuse to leave Gaza
What's the story
Palestinian families in Gaza remain resolute in their choice to stay in their homeland, despite facing a 15-month-long conflict that started with Hamas's attacks on October 7, 2023.
The war claimed over 48,000 Palestinian lives, including over 13,000 children, with more than 111,000 injured, according to health authorities in the strip.
It also caused mass displacement—to the tune of 90%—and permanent hunger among Gazans.
Resettlement rejection
Gazans reject Trump's resettlement plan amid conflict
Former United States President Donald Trump had proposed resettling Gaza's residents elsewhere and turning it into a "Riviera of the Middle East."
The proposal had sparked international outrage and warnings against ethnic cleansing from United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.
However, many Gazans, including Saaed Salem who stayed in north Gaza during the war with around 400,000 others, have rejected the plan.
Endurance and hope
Gazans endure hardships, remain hopeful amid conflict
Mazouza Abu Hindi, a Gaza resident who lost one son to Israeli attacks and another to detention, rejected Trump's plan.
Her family was forced to live in a burned-out school classroom after their home was destroyed.
However, she remains resolute despite the hardships: "If he wants to rebuild Gaza, let him build it, and we will stay here."
Unwavering determination
Gazans determined to stay despite ongoing threats
Khaldiyah Al-Shanbari, who lost two sisters and her home in the conflict, now resides with her surviving sister in a damaged classroom.
She vowed to stay in Gaza: "Neither he nor anyone else can wipe us out."
"For two years, we have endured hunger, bombings, and loss, but we are still here. We will endure until this nightmare ends."