Ruptly
"Gazans who lost their homes in the war with Israel were seen enjoying some light relief on Thursday, taking part in the 'Staying Strong Despite Destruction' volleyball tournament. Footage shows a match in progress, residents watching from the sidelines - and widespread destruction in the surrounding area. “Sports and joy are born from the womb of pain and suffering,” said Mahmoud Al-Suwair, the tournament organiser. He explained that four teams made up of displaced residents whose homes were destroyed in northern Gaza were participating in the tournament. "They want to convey to the world that they are the rightful owners, that they have a cause and that they have a homeland," he added. Saeed al-Tayyib, one of the players, said "this tournament was a major challenge, because as the venue is very cramped. However, we wanted to play volleyball as a recreational outlet, so we organised this event with very limited resources to entertain the youth through volleyball." "We want to deliver a message to the whole world that despite the devastation we are currently experiencing, we are capable of rising to the challenge, and we will continue to play despite these harsh circumstances," he added. Israel and Hamas agreed the first phase of a peace plan last October, with a ceasefire, exchange of prisoners and hostages, and aid supplies to the enclave. Discussions on the second phase - on post-war governance and rebuilding - were reportedly underway in January, according to the United States."
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