Gaza City, Gaza Strip – Amidst widespread devastation and displacement, Gaza's lifeguards are working with severely limited equipment to ensure the safety of swimmers flocking to the coastline for respite from the summer heat and the pressures of ongoing conflict. Lifeguards like Ahmed Abu Haseira, 33, spend long hours scanning the crowded waters, often using only their eyes, voices, and hand signals to prevent drownings.

The lack of essential rescue gear, including loudspeakers, rescue buoys, and watchtowers, is a stark reality for these professionals. Abu Haseira, who returned to his job after surviving an Israeli attack in August 2024 that destroyed his home and killed his family, now shares a single whistle with his colleagues as their primary signaling device. His own whistle is buried beneath the rubble of his destroyed house.

Ibrahim Shamlakh, head of the Gaza Municipality's marine rescue department, stated that approximately 120 lifeguards are currently employed along the beaches, a decrease from the pre-war figure of around 140. Despite these shortages, the team has attempted to increase its presence this summer, working in two shifts to cover the coastline from 8 am to 8 pm.

The sea has become one of the few accessible leisure activities for Palestinians in Gaza, offering a temporary escape from the harsh conditions caused by the ongoing war. The beaches provide a crucial space for relaxation and recreation, particularly for those displaced from their homes and living in crowded tents.

Abu Haseira and his colleagues are committed to their duty, making "an extra effort so that all the children and young people are monitored and kept safe," he said. Their dedication highlights the resilience of Gazan residents and their determination to maintain some semblance of normalcy and safety despite immense challenges.

The destruction of infrastructure and equipment is a direct consequence of the war, which has impacted nearly every aspect of life in Gaza. The municipality's marine rescue department has lost much of the equipment they once relied on to perform their duties effectively.

This situation underscores the broader humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where essential services and resources are severely depleted. The lifeguards' efforts, though commendable, are significantly hampered by the lack of basic safety equipment, raising concerns about the potential for tragic incidents.

As the summer continues, the Gazan lifeguards face the daunting task of protecting swimmers with limited means, embodying a spirit of service in one of the world's most challenging environments.