This Car Is Our Home

A displaced father from Gaza turned his 1965 car into a shelter for his five children.
Untold Palestine
June 7, 2024
Gaza, Palestine
Story by:
Mohammed Saad

I’m Yaser Awad, 38, a displaced father from Gaza with five kids. We fled to Deir Al-Balah with others forced from their homes. I left my home in the Al-Remal area, and I have no clue if it’s rubble or still standing.

I left behind my father, some of my brothers, and their families, and I have no information about them due to power and internet blackouts in Gaza City.

All 11 of us moved in this ‘65 vintage car, which has significant value. It was used for photography and advertisements before the war and was supposed to be a museum piece. However, now it serves as our transportation.

Our journey didn’t stop in Deir Al-Balah; we had to move again to Rafah. Once more, we moved there using this car.

We are trying to live like everyone else despite the challenging conditions. Currently, I sleep in this car, taking turns with my kids. It’s not just a transport; it’s become our home and everything.”