The sound of the Israeli bombardment is really frightening, despite the fact that it is not new for us here in Gaza. Earlier today, a building across the road from me was bombed so I decided to leave my home. On the way out it was distressing to hear the cries of young women and children in the stairwell, also fleeing the building. I was so touched to see one child carrying her cat, another one holding on tight to a cage with a bird inside, children are the same around the world.

Preparing my emergency bag was so quick, but having my daughter next to me was so worrying. To my great surprise and comfort, she was so calm and even helped in reassuring the children and their mothers.

It was not easy to get a taxi to friends’ flat where we moved to in search of somewhere safe. The streets were deserted and no taxi would stop for us, all hurrying up with injured people or ordinary passengers. A taxi stopped at last. Shelling and very loud sounds made us flinch and I could not help screaming loudly.

With all this going on, I’m proud to say that together with the MECA staff, volunteers and partners from North to South of Gaza we activated our emergency relief plan to support internally displaced families and hospitals that are in great need for supplies and medication.

It is now 15 hours after the start of the assault. I am tired but cannot not sleep. Nobody will be able to sleep tonight and no place is safe.

From Gaza with love.
Dr. Mona El-Farra