In the midst of the ongoing conflict in Gaza, the Rafah Zoo stands as a poignant symbol of resilience and desperation. As over a million Palestinians flee the Gaza Strip’s Rafah region due to continuous military operations, the zoo’s animals face their own struggle for survival.
Zookeeper Fathi Gomaa has been the steadfast guardian of these animals amid the turmoil. “I have done everything in my power to transfer most of the animals to safety,” Gomaa shared, his voice heavy with fatigue and concern. Many of the animals have been moved to a temporary facility in Khan Younis, but not all could be saved.
Among those left behind are three lions, majestic creatures now trapped in a war zone. “Without care, these animals have no chance of survival,” Gomaa emphasized. The difficulties of transporting large predators amidst conflict zones are immense, and resources are scarce.
The Rafah Zoo, once a place of joy and education for local families, now echoes with the silence of abandonment. The animals that remain are in dire need of food, medical care, and safe shelter. Gomaa’s appeal to the international community is urgent: “We need assistance to save these innocent lives.”
The plight of the Rafah Zoo highlights the often-overlooked collateral damage of war—the impact on wildlife and the environment. Humanitarian efforts typically focus on people, but animals, too, suffer the consequences of conflict.
As the situation in Gaza remains volatile, the fate of the Rafah Zoo’s remaining animals hangs in the balance. International organizations and animal welfare groups are being called upon to provide immediate assistance. The hope is that with global support, these animals can find refuge and care, reflecting a small beacon of compassion amid the hardships of war.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
