Help Mahmoud Find Hope Amid Crisis in North Gaza

Dear Friends,

I am Mahmoud, a 21-year-old from Northern Gaza, where I have been living under the crushing weight of genocide for almost a year. My life, and the lives of everyone I love, have been shattered beyond imagination. I never thought my world would turn into this nightmare, and now I reach out to you—because your help is my only hope.

My story is one of pain, resilience, and unbearable loss. I have lost my brother, who was martyred. The weight of this grief is something I carry every day. I have also survived two bombings, which have further intensified my struggles. And as if this was not enough, at just 21, I now bear the crushing responsibility of caring for my family, who depend on me for survival.

I was captured by the IDF, an experience so traumatic that I find it difficult to speak of, but I refuse to let it break me. My university, the Islamic University of Gaza, was also bombed and destroyed, making my path to education even more challenging. Despite everything, I am still standing, determined to continue my studies and pursue my master’s degree.

The university:

One of the most horrifying moments came when the IDF entered our residential block, turning it into a combat zone. I have a photo that shows the destruction and fear that gripped us during those dark hours, as our home became a place of chaos and unimaginable terror. As you can see in the picture below, it was taken from my room, capturing the tanks that surrounded us, standing right in front of our home with their guns aimed directly at us. The feeling of helplessness in that moment is something I can never forget.

The picture:

The situation in Northern Gaza is dire. Famine is spreading, and the medical infrastructure has collapsed. People are dying from lack of food, water, and basic medical supplies. This reality only strengthens my resolve to continue my education and build a future despite the devastation around me.

I am writing to you now because I desperately need your support. The funds raised will help me continue my education, provide essential medical care, and support my family through these devastating times.

Every contribution, no matter how small, is a step toward saving my future. Your generosity will not only ease my immediate suffering, but it will also restore the hope that has been so cruelly stripped away from me.

Thank you for taking the time to listen to my story and for offering your kindness in this darkest time. I am forever grateful for any help you can give.

With all my heart,

Mahmoud