Key Points
- The Gaza Strip is described as an “open-air prison” where civilians have no means of escape from ongoing military operations and blockades.
- Local journalist Hosam Salem highlights the extreme scarcity of food, water, and electricity, noting that daily life has become a singular struggle for survival.
- The report emphasizes the psychological toll of constant surveillance and the presence of “quadcopter” drones that target movement in residential areas.
- Despite the danger, independent journalists continue to document the destruction to ensure the reality of the humanitarian crisis reaches the international community.
Full Transcript (English)
Host (Jun Hori): This is Jun Hori from 8bitNews. Today, we are connecting once again with Gaza. The situation there is often described as a “prison without a roof,” but what is actually happening on the ground right now? We are joined by photojournalist Hosam Salem, who continues to report from the front lines despite the extreme danger. Hosam, can you hear me? What is the current situation where you are?
Guest (Hosam Salem): Yes, Jun, I can hear you. The situation here is very difficult and dangerous. We are living through a nightmare that never ends. Every day, the bombardment continues, and the Israeli army is pushing further into residential areas. There is no place that can be called “safe” in the entire Gaza Strip.
Host: We often hear about the “quadcopters” or drones. How are they affecting the daily lives of people there?
Guest: The sound of the drones is constant. It is a psychological torture. These quadcopters are not just for surveillance; they are equipped with weapons and shoot at anything that moves in certain areas. People are afraid to even look out of their windows or step into the street to find food. You feel like you are being watched every second of the day.
Host: What is the situation regarding food and water? We have seen reports of a looming famine.
Guest: It is not just a “looming” famine; people are already starving. Finding flour to make bread is a miracle. People wait in lines for many hours just for a small amount of water that is often not even clean. We are seeing children becoming very weak. The markets are empty, and the prices for the few things left are impossible for anyone to pay. We are essentially trapped in this “open-air prison” with no resources.
Host: As a journalist, why do you continue to stay and report under such conditions?
Guest: Because if we don’t speak, who will? The world needs to see the truth of what is happening to the civilians here. Many of my colleagues have been killed while doing this work. We are not just numbers; we are humans with families and dreams. My mission is to show the reality of this “prison” to the world, hoping that someone will listen and help stop this suffering.
Host: Thank you, Hosam. Please stay safe. We will continue to share your voice from Japan.
