Challenged from the Sky

The highest rain levels and the lowest temperatures in decades add yet another layer to Gaza's challenges. The unrelenting storm that ended yesterday brutalized the Strip, cutting for days the already scarce energy. Bone-chilling cold. Here a few scenes, beginning with entry at the Erez Crossing.

 

The Exit

Some more photos of the Erez Crossing, this time on the way out (see first post for other photos). Unfortunately the video I took when riding on Ayman's "new cart" won't load!

 

These would be the last views one has before entering the Israeli terminal via the first turnstile.

 

Gaza's Power

Gazans have long, and rightly, been known for their ingenuity, learning as they must continually to survive ever new and increasing challenges. Here is the latest. Below are photos of battery cells that are being manufactured in Gaza to supply power during the regular outages. Power is typically on for 8 hours, then off for 8.

This is exceptionally valuable because they are beginning to replace to noxious gas generators that everyone bought after the Cast Lead Operation, 18 days of massive shelling at the end of 2008 spilling over to 2009. Beyond over 1, 300 killed, there was massive destruction to infrastructure, including the power plants.

For either primary or reserve power for their homes or businesses, Gazans bought thousands of small diesel generators that were imported via the tunnels under the Gaza-Egyptian border.

When our research team has been in  Gaza since that assault ended, the noise and air pollution of those thousands of generators was staggering -- and extremely dangerous to health.

Below are pictures of one of the new electric replacements, found in the home of one of my friends in Nuseirat Camp.

The availability of such comes none too soon . . . since Egypt closed the tunnels a few weeks ago.

Gaza's Children

 

Please savor these images of such beautiful children,  but please do not copy or share them except to forward the full posting or blog.

                  

 All are children of close friends of mine. I have the parents' permission to post the photos, but I'd like to protect them in all ways possible nevertheless.