Gaza Rescuers Courageously Battle the Aftermath of Constant Bombardment

Over the past 14 months, Gaza’s rescue workers like Nooh al-Shaghnobi have been driven to the brink by the weight of their harrowing experiences. Battling against the odds, they continue to respond to the devastation caused by a relentless Israeli bombing campaign, often haunted by the voices of those they cannot save.

In the aftermath of ongoing airstrikes in Gaza, the emotional and physical toll on rescue workers has become unbearable. Nooh al-Shaghnobi, one such brave rescuer, recently shared his intense struggle with the haunting memories of lives lost under the rubble of collapsed structures. "My soul is tired from this war," he remarked, captured between his valiant efforts and the overwhelming despair of abandonment.

For over a year, these frontline responders—including paramedics and ambulance crews—have faced relentless challenges, rushing to countless sites hit by Israeli airstrikes. The International Committee of the Red Cross reports that Gaza’s rescuers operate under perilous conditions, working without adequate equipment or fuel for their vehicles. When caught in the chaos, they are forced to rely on their bare hands and basic tools to save survivors from beneath the wreckage left by nearly 30,000 munitions that Israel has unleashed during the early weeks of this latest conflict.

The sense of urgency is palpable as rescuers grapple with the reality that many they attempt to help remain trapped, with their cries echoing in the hearts and minds of those left behind. "We hear the voices of the people under the rubble," al-Shaghnobi recounted, illustrating the anguish of those left powerless against the destructive forces around them.

The humanitarian crisis in Gaza remains dire, particularly for those tasked with the immediate and often dangerous job of responding to emergencies. Despite the overwhelming challenges, the resilience and commitment of Gaza’s rescue workers are commendable, as they continue to dedicate themselves fully to the recovery and support of their communities.