Khawla al-Khalidi, a dedicated journalist in Gaza, has been working tirelessly amidst the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Despite losing her dream home and being displaced multiple times, al-Khalidi remains committed to her work, providing updates to viewers from the makeshift bureau at Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital.
The 34-year-old journalist, who has been in the industry for 11 years, has been reporting for Palestine TV, as well as Al Hadath and Al Arabiya channels since the war began. However, her life has been upended by the constant bombings and the threat of air raids. Al-Khalidi’s usual office was evacuated, and she had to work from home, conducting live interviews over the phone.
During one interview, al-Khalidi received a message from her husband, Baher, informing her that they needed to evacuate their neighborhood immediately as it was going to be targeted by the Israelis. The couple and their four children sought refuge at al-Khalidi’s parents’ home in Gaza City, only to later find out that their own house had been completely destroyed.
Despite the challenges and displacements, al-Khalidi remains resilient. She continues her work while being displaced farther and farther away, realizing that what matters most is having a private and secure space for her family. She wakes up at dawn, prays with her husband, and heads to the hospital where she reports multiple times a day. Her husband, who hasn’t been working since the war started, supports her and provides encouragement.
Al-Khalidi’s determination is fueled by the hope of one day reporting on the liberation of Palestine. She believes in the strength and bravery of Palestinian journalists, considering them to be the best in the world. The war has made her appreciate life’s blessings and has strengthened her resolve to rebuild a better and more beautiful home in the future.
Despite the dangers faced by journalists in Gaza, al-Khalidi’s unwavering dedication to her work and her belief in Palestinian freedom serve as a testament to the resilience of individuals in the face of adversity.
