In Gaza, no aspect of life has been spared by Israeli aggression—neither people, nature, nor cultural heritage. The occupation forces have not only targeted lives but also sought to erase Palestinian identity by destroying museums and archaeological sites.

One such victim is the Al-Qarara Cultural Museum in Khan Yunis, southern Gaza, which was destroyed twice. In October 2023, the museum suffered partial damage, followed by complete devastation during further bombings in November. Access to the site was only restored in July 2024, after the Israeli forces withdrew from Khan Yunis.

Muhammad Abu Lahia, founder of the museum, recounted the destruction inflicted during the second invasion of Al-Qarara. The Mayasam Association for Culture and Arts, which oversees the museum, faced significant losses. The museum’s arcade was levelled, the outer walls destroyed, exhibits shattered, and ceilings left cracked.

Abu Lahia asserted, “This destruction will not force us to surrender. We will rebuild the museum as a cultural and heritage landmark for everyone to visit.” He accused the occupation of systematically targeting Palestinian heritage sites in an effort to obliterate cultural identity and erase evidence of ancient Palestinian life.

In August 2024, the "Save Al-Qarara Cultural Museum" project was launched with funding from the Swiss foundation Aleph. The Mayasam Association quickly began efforts to rescue and secure archaeological artifacts. Over three days, the team transferred vital exhibits, including stone columns, basins, grinding tools, jars, and tombstones, to a safe location within the museum building.

The Cultural Heritage Protection Team worked tirelessly to restore and preserve these items, ensuring they remain part of Palestine’s living history.

The 15-member rescue team faced numerous challenges, from locating protective materials to securing the collections during ongoing bombardments. Despite these difficulties, they successfully safeguarded many artifacts. Specialized online training in artifact protection during crises proved invaluable in helping the team complete their mission.

Abu Lahia remains determined to rebuild the museum and display the rescued heritage collections to both locals and international visitors. He confirmed that the rescue team continues to catalogue heritage pieces across Khan Yunis and the central region, aiming to expand their preservation efforts.

The Al-Qarara Cultural Museum stands as a symbol of Palestinian steadfastness, embodying the enduring spirit of a people determined to protect their cultural legacy despite relentless challenges.