Woman plays oud for displaced children to block out sound of war in Gaza

Ruaa Hassuna plays the oud while children surrounding her accompany her with singing daily amidst the sounds of airplanes and the echoes of bombing in Rafah, south of the Gaza Strip .

In a poignant act of resilience, 23-year-old Palestinian woman Ruaa Hassuna embarks on a journey from one displaced camp to another in Gaza.

Armed with her musical talent as an oud player, she dedicates herself to offering a fleeting sanctuary for children amidst the devastating impact of war.

Ruaa’s mission is to provide a brief respite from the horrors that surround these displaced camps. As the haunting sounds of airplanes, known as “Zanana” to Gaza residents,  the young Palestinian woman becomes a beacon of hope.

Despite the ominous presence overhead, the children under Ruaa’s care manage to drown out the disconcerting noises. Instead, they immerse themselves in the enchanting melodies of the oud, embracing the temporary refuge created by music.

Through Ruaa’s efforts, the displaced children find solace in the harmonious tunes, momentarily escaping the harsh realities of their tumultuous surroundings.

In the face of adversity, Ruaa’s journey symbolizes the transformative power of music, offering a respite that transcends the confines of conflict and provides a semblance of normalcy for the young souls caught in the midst of war.