As Mohammed Sweirky prepared to embark on a work trip to repair telecommunications infrastructure in northern Gaza, his family begged him not to go. Despite the ongoing conflict between Israeli troops and Hamas, Sweirky, a technician for Paltel, felt compelled to restore phone services for residents in need.
The war in Gaza has turned Sweirky’s job into one of the most dangerous and crucial in the region. Israel’s airstrikes have decimated telecommunications infrastructure, leaving many areas without service for days or even weeks. Paltel technicians have risked their lives to repair cell towers, fiber cables, and data centers.
The toll on Paltel employees has been severe, with at least 16 workers losing their lives since the conflict began. The destruction of infrastructure has left Palestinians struggling to communicate, coordinate aid efforts, and report on unfolding events.
Despite the risks, Paltel technicians continue their vital work. They navigate dangerous territories, facing gunfire and tank fire while trying to restore connectivity. The Israeli military has at times hindered their efforts, leading to close calls and tragic incidents.
The road to rebuilding Gaza’s network is long and fraught with challenges. Paltel faces obstacles in bringing essential equipment into the region and must navigate complex interactions with Israeli forces during repair missions. The future of Gaza’s telecommunications infrastructure remains uncertain, as technicians like Sweirky and his colleagues risk their lives to keep communities connected.