Episode 116 - Gaza the Phoenix with Hala Hanina

Interview
Written By Palestine Pod

This week Michael and Lara welcome Hala Hanina, a native Gazan. Hala is a PHD student who had left the country just a few days before October 7th in order to secure a visa for her studies; it’s the first time that she’s been outside of Palestine during an aggression. She’s currently separated from her husband and the rest of her family who are still in Gaza. Hala refers to Palestine as the Phoenix; the mythical bird that rises from the ashes and cannot be defeated. After so many bombings, attacks, and assaults, the people of Gaza continually rebuild their life and continue on. Hala speaks about the choice to migrate from the north to the south, or to leave Palestine. She points out that “it’s not about where we are; it’s who we are.” Just being Palestinian is seen as a crime by the occupation. Hala provides an insightful perspective into the war crimes that are being committed right now, like extortion to cross the border, forced starvation, and the deliberate targeting of medical facilities and personnel. It’s an emotional episode from an incredibly strong Palestinian voice.

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Episode 117 - The Torture Files
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Episode 115 - Why are we not like the other children?