The Current Life under fire: One family’s plea from Gaza
Aug 21, 2025
Karim Abushbak, a Canadian permanent resident trapped in Gaza, shares his family's harrowing experiences living under constant threat. He describes the devastating emotional toll of daily life amidst conflict and their desperate pleas for help. Emmanuelle Elbaz-Phelps, an independent journalist in Tel Aviv, provides insight into the political pressures facing the Israeli government as protests for hostages escalate. Together, they highlight the urgent humanitarian crisis and the complexities of negotiating a ceasefire amid ongoing military tensions.
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Crowded, Roofless Shelter Under Drone Surveillance
- Karim Abushbak describes sleeping in a roofless room packed with 60 people while drones buzz overhead.
- He says he shares one bathroom with dozens and calls the situation an "absolute nightmare."
Repeated Forced Displacements Across Gaza
- Karim recounts repeated forced displacements across Gaza: Jabalia, Khan Yunis, Rafah, Daryl Balah, then back to a destroyed home.
- He says each move left them more exposed and waiting for help that "never seems to come."
Severe Food Shortages and Impact on Youth
- Karim says food is scarce and low quality, with no meat, fruits, or vegetables for almost two years.
- He reports his two sisters, aged 15 and 17, are "just struggling" alongside him at 21 years old.