A 22 year-old-man from Belfast has been volunteering in Palestine in aid of civilians caught up in the ongoing war in Gaza.
Laochra Mac Iomaire, a community worker, had previously visited Palestine last summer, participating in an international solidarity summer camp.
“Many Palestinians expressed their gratitude for my presence and encouraged me to use my voice to advocate for those who are unheard, and to share my experiences with the world,” he said.
“Since returning home, I’ve been committed to fundraising and raising awareness to support the community, which I consider my second home.”
Laochra has previously helped raise thousands with the website ‘Gaeilge!’ that sells Palestinian t-shirts and sports tops, with all proceeds going to the Lajee Center, a refugee camp based in Bethlehem that helps hundreds of children.
“I had intended to revisit in February this year to participate in the marathon for the Lajee Centre, but it was cancelled because of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Since then, I had been patiently waiting for the airlines to resume operations.
“When asked by security about the purpose of my trip from London to Tel Aviv, I explained that I had planned to visit Israel for a holiday.”
Laochra’s family were initially hesitant with the safety of the trip, but were supportive of his choice.
“I reassured them that I would be safe and well taken care of by the residents of the refugee camp. Despite their initial worries, they supported my decision, and I have been in touch with them daily.”
“I’ve been staying with local families whom I met last year, and they’ve graciously hosted me in their home, providing meals and offering anything I require without hesitation. I’ve also had the honour of attending two weddings during my stay here, which I believe showcases the generosity of the Palestinian people.
“I volunteered at a children’s summer camp, catering to over 300 refugee children aged 3 to 16. The kids were immersed in their history and culture through music, dance and educational trips, providing them with the right to play and explore, just like all children should.”
Laochra has been joined in the international summer camp by 11 other internationals, four of whom are Irish. Over the past few weeks, the 22-year-old has visited multiple camps and towns outside of Bethlehem, and as a result has been exposed to the mass deprivation of the area.
“During a recent visit to Hebron, once a bustling hub of Palestinian shops and markets, I observed its current state of near desolation due to laws imposed by Israel.
“Stringent regulations have been imposed in this area, restricting Arabs or Palestinians from using certain roads, leading to significant detours. What should be a short 5 to 10 minute journey can now take up to 6 hours, depending on the duration the Israeli occupation forces decide to hold the Palestinians.
Ever since the Hamas militant attack on Israel on October 7th, the civilians of Palestine have come under increasing attacks from the IDF, with Palestinian health authorities claiming the death toll has surpassed 40,000.
