World Unites to Provide Telephone and Internet Access to Gaza
The world mobilized: Telephone and internet connection to besieged Gaza
Amidst the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip, a glimmer of hope has emerged as Egyptians writer and activist Mirna El Helbawi and her organization, Connecting Gaza, have successfully restored telephone and internet connections for over 200,000 people in the area.
Since the start of the Israeli airstrikes, telecommunication services in Gaza were severely disrupted, leaving many Palestinians without access to vital communication networks. The lack of connectivity posed significant challenges for civilians, including the inability to call for help during attacks and limited access to essential services, such as medical aid.
The initiative, which utilized eSIM or virtual SIM technology, was a direct response to the targeted destruction of vital network infrastructure by the Israeli forces. The power outages and deliberate disruption of communication services further isolated the people of Gaza, leading to fears of war crimes going unnoticed.
The success of Connecting Gaza’s efforts was made possible through the collaboration of volunteers and international aid organizations. The organization received support from around the world, with volunteers purchasing and donating eSIMs to help reconnect the people of Gaza. The rapid spread of the initiative on social media led to an estimated $1.3 million worth of eSIMs being donated for distribution.
Inspired by the overwhelming support, Mirna El Helbawi has since expanded her efforts by launching a nonprofit organization called Connecting Humanity. Through this new venture, she aims to extend support to vulnerable populations in other conflict zones, emphasizing the importance of global solidarity in times of crisis.
The restoration of communication networks in Gaza serves as a powerful reminder of the essential role that access to telephone and internet plays in ensuring basic human rights for all individuals, particularly in conflict-affected areas. The swift and collective response from volunteers and organizations around the world demonstrates the impact of global solidarity and the potential for positive change amid adversity.
