Gaza Refugee Implements Shelter Committee Amid Conflict, Rejects Armed Presence to Ensure Safety

After the onset of war in October, Nasser al-Zaanin and his adult children, along with their children, were compelled to vacate their home in Northern Gaza. They sought refuge in the Abdul Kareem al-Aklouk school in Deir al-Balah, which had been repurposed into a shelter.

Establishing Resilience Amid Adversity

Upon settling at the shelter, Nasser al-Zaanin took the initiative to implement improved living conditions for the displaced families. He played a pivotal role in organizing a series of committees within the shelter premises, aimed at addressing the basic needs of the residents. These committees focused on essentials such as food, water, and medical care, ensuring that the families were provided for during their stay.

Prioritizing Security and Safety

An essential principle established by the committees was to maintain a weapons-free environment. In light of prior experiences where displaced individuals became targets in the civil war, the residents of the shelter collectively expressed their adamant refusal to allow the presence of armed personnel within the premises. This stance was particularly reinforced by the persistent Israeli bombardment, as they aimed to minimize any potential risks associated with the conflict.

Preventing Militants' Presence

Despite offers from Hamas to station security personnel at the shelter, the residents vehemently opposed this proposition. They prioritized the safety and peaceful coexistence of families in the shelter above any assurances of security. The commitment to fortify a neutral and secure environment within the shelter remains unwavering.