Summary
Farmers in Gaza, like Mohammed al-Slakhy, are returning to their fields despite danger from ongoing Israeli military presence. These farmers face the risk of attack while trying to rebuild their farms, which were heavily damaged during the conflict. Over 80% of farmland in Gaza has been harmed, and the establishment of Israeli buffer zones further restricts access to farmable land.
Key Facts
- A ceasefire in Gaza began in October 2023, allowing some farmers to return to their fields.
- Mohammed al-Slakhy, a farmer in Gaza, is trying to restore his farm amidst the threat of Israeli military activity nearby.
- His greenhouses, irrigation systems, and wells were destroyed during the conflict.
- Over 80% of cropland in Gaza was damaged, with less than 5% currently usable for farming.
- Israeli buffer zones now cover about 58% of the Gaza Strip, with many former agricultural areas included.
- Farmers fear further loss of land if these buffer zones remain permanent.
- Israeli forces sometimes fire near farming areas, posing a direct threat to farmers like Mohammed.
