As air raids intensify in Gaza following the Hamas attack on Israel, families and friends in the Bay Area are deeply concerned for the safety of their loved ones. The military response to the attack has resulted in the deaths of thousands of civilians, leaving those who remain with no choice but to evacuate, unsure of where to seek refuge.
In Los Gatos, at a local mosque, members of the Islamic community come together daily to support one another and pray for an end to the violence. The Bay Area is home to Palestinians of both Christian and Muslim faiths, and the local mosque serves as a gathering place to discuss the ongoing conflict and find solace in each other’s company.
Sharif Zakout, a Bay Area resident, last spoke with his family in Gaza on Thursday morning. They have endured years of living in constant fear, taking cover from bombs and struggling with limited resources. However, Zakout explains that this week has brought a level of devastation they had not witnessed before.
The recent airstrikes have decimated countless homes and businesses, leaving people in Gaza without access to basic necessities such as food, water, and electricity. The situation is dire, and Zakout describes it as a death sentence imposed by the Israeli government on the people of Gaza.
The California Department of Emergency Services has expressed concerns about potential violence spilling over into the Golden State. As a precautionary measure, synagogues, churches, and mosques are considering heightened security.
In Los Gatos, members of a mosque have been gathering daily to pray for their families in Gaza and offer support to one another. The fear and trauma are palpable, as communication with Gaza has become increasingly difficult due to power outages and limited connectivity.
While safety concerns exist within the Bay Area, those affected by the conflict prioritize the lives of those in harm’s way in Gaza. However, Zakout raises a valid point about the extra patrols around Islamic centers. He hopes that these measures are genuinely aimed at ensuring the safety of those inside and not a means of surveillance, as he witnessed in the aftermath of 9/11.
The situation in Gaza continues to worsen, and it is crucial for the international community to take action to protect innocent lives and work towards a peaceful resolution. Our thoughts and prayers are with those affected by the conflict, both in Gaza and here in the Bay Area.