Mamdouh’s Story: How 10-Year Gaza Blockade has Devastated Fishermen
by Anera
June marks the somber 10th anniversary of the Gaza blockade. The past decade has crippled Gaza’s economy and standard of living. The fishermen who populate the enclave’s shoreline have been some of the most deeply affected by the blockade. While Gaza’s fishermen used to be able to make a living off the sea, many like Mamdouh had to quit their inherited livelihoods due to blockade policies that limit the fishing area to only 3.7 miles from shore. This has resulted in over-fishing and a sharp decline of the fish population. Now impoverished fishermen are struggling to find other ways to make a living.
In the video below, hear Mamdouh tells his Gaza blockade story—from a happy past with two motorboats and all the fish in the sea, to a dismal present spent scrounging for jobs.
WATCH: Meet Mamdouh, a Gaza Fisherman
Learn more about life in Gaza, how the blockade has affected the people of Gaza and the economy — and what you can do to help. Learn more about Gaza>>