Kathmandu— Ahmed Abu Haseira scans the water along the Gaza City shoreline, gesturing to swimmers and urging them away from potential dangers with a shared whistle – one of the few remaining tools available to Gaza’s depleted lifeguard force. The 33-year-old returned to his post after losing his wife, three children, and father in an Israeli attack in August 2024, driven by a desire to provide a rare moment of safety for Palestinians seeking relief from the pressures of war. Currently employing around 120 lifeguards, Gaza Municipality is struggling to maintain even basic rescue services amidst widespread destruction and import restrictions.

Reduced Resources Hamper Rescue Efforts

Before the recent conflict, Gaza’s beaches were equipped with a network of lifeguard towers positioned every 200 meters, each boasting sound systems, communication equipment, and essential rescue gear. Now, most of those structures are gone, forcing lifeguards to work from ground-level tents that severely limit their visibility. Ibrahim Shamlakh, head of the municipality’s marine rescue department, explained that a tent offers ‘almost no visibility,’ especially if someone stands in front of it. The boats used for offshore rescues have also been destroyed, leaving teams reliant on limited resources like whistles and hand signals.

Increased Demand, Limited Equipment

Despite the challenges, lifeguards are seeing increased demand for their services as Palestinians flock to the beaches seeking a temporary escape from the ongoing war. Shamlakh reported that his team responds to between 20 and 50 rescue incidents on an average day, peaking at 165 cases on one particularly crowded Friday. However, essential equipment remains scarce; lifeguards often lack enough rescue buoys to respond to multiple emergencies simultaneously, relying instead on the assistance of strong swimmers among the beachgoers. The cost of even basic supplies like whistles has tripled since before the war, further straining limited budgets.

Lifeguards Driven by Personal Loss and Duty

For many lifeguards, the job is not just a source of income but a deeply personal commitment. Ahmed Abu Haseira’s return to duty after suffering devastating loss underscores this dedication; he views each rescue as a tribute to his family. “Saving a life is a great honour and gives me comfort,” he says. Bilal Bakar, a 15-year veteran lifeguard, echoed this sentiment, stating that he and his colleagues consistently volunteer extra hours to ensure continuous coverage. Despite irregular pay and financial hardship, they remain committed to protecting swimmers.

Financial Strain Compounds Challenges

Lifeguards receive approximately 25 shekels (about $8) for a six-hour shift, but payments are often delayed or inconsistent. Bakar revealed that the team once worked for 75 days without pay, adding to the financial struggles faced by many families in Gaza. Many lifeguards also rely on fishing as a secondary source of income, but restrictions have limited their ability to work at sea. Shamlakh acknowledged the difficulties, stating simply, “The lifeguards are struggling just like everyone else.”

Despite facing immense challenges and lacking essential resources, Gaza’s lifeguards remain steadfast in their commitment to protecting swimmers, extending their hours and relying on personal dedication to ensure beachgoers can find a moment of respite amidst the ongoing conflict.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.