Skip to main content

Artistic, musical events bring some joy to grief-stricken Gaza

Touristic establishments in the Gaza Strip are slowly regaining life with more local singers holding music events amid the ongoing Israeli siege and the difficult economic conditions.
Palestinian men, some wearing face masks, dance at a wedding a day before authorities impose a ban on festive events as a protective measure against the coronavirus  pandemic, Rafah, Gaza Strip, March 21, 2020.

GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip — The Gaza Strip has been witnessing an uptick in artistic activities after a stagnation that lasted for years, mainly due to the Palestinian division and Hamas’ control of the coastal enclave. The Islamic movement espouses a fundamentalist ideology, which prompted many in Gaza to halt their artistic activities, such as musical evenings, in order not to raise debate or face any problems with the authorities.

Today, however, Gaza’s tourist resorts and hotels are again organizing musical events following an increase in domestic tourism activities this summer.

Access the Middle East news and analysis you can trust

Join our community of Middle East readers to experience all of Al-Monitor, including 24/7 news, analyses, memos, reports and newsletters.

Subscribe

Only $100 per year.