Amid the relentless echoes of war in Gaza, Rafah Zoo stands as an unlikely battleground for survival. Over a million Palestinians have fled the region since October due to military operations—but the story of the zoo’s animals is one of quiet resilience and desperation.
A Zookeeper’s Mission
Fathi Gomaa, the zoo’s caretaker, has become an unexpected hero. While evacuating countless families, Gomaa raced to relocate animals to a temporary shelter in Khan Younis. \"I did everything I could,\" he told CGTN, his voice cracking. But three lions, along with other creatures, remain trapped in Rafah, their roars drowned by nearby explosions.
A Plea for Help
With food and medical supplies dwindling, Gomaa urges global aid organizations: \"Without support, these animals won’t survive.\" The makeshift sanctuary lacks resources, and time is running out. The crisis highlights a lesser-known casualty of conflict—the bond between humans and wildlife.
Why It Matters 🌍
Beyond headlines of geopolitics, stories like Rafah Zoo’s remind us of shared vulnerability. For young activists and animal lovers worldwide, it’s a call to advocate for life in all forms—even amid chaos.
