Arsal Shamsi - Once upon a time in Gaza
Once upon a time in Gaza
Arsal Shamsi
Description
In the war-torn remnants of Gaza, Najm and his father, Abdullah, seek refuge in a desolate jungle to escape the devastation. Struggling with hunger, they resort to eating a rat to survive. Encountering Akbar, an old acquaintance, they find temporary solace in his offer of fish. However, tensions rise as Akbar proposes an indecent deal, causing Abdullah to firmly reject any compromise of their morals despite their dire circumstances.Abdullah's vigilance grows as he suspects Akbar's intentions towards Najm. As they navigate survival, an eerie encounter with a masked figure, whom Abdullah believes to be a Dajjal, adds to their fears. Despite the danger, Abdullah maintains his faith, praying for protection and holding onto hope amidst the chaos. The chapter unfolds a gripping tale of survival, moral dilemmas, and the looming threat of betrayal in the shadow of war.