Gaza swimming courses: 1,500 children take to the sea near displaced persons' tents

In the war-torn coastal area of Mawasi, southern Gaza, 1,500 children recently plunged into the sea, marking the culmination of free summer swimming courses. The initiative, organized by the Tantesh Swimming Academy, Gaza's oldest, provided a rare moment of joy and normalcy for youngsters amidst widespread displacement and destruction.

The academy, operating since 1999, faced immense challenges after its facilities were destroyed by Israeli attacks. Undeterred, its instructors created makeshift swimming pools on the beach, allowing children to learn vital water safety skills. This effort is particularly crucial given that 93% of Gaza's schools require extensive reconstruction, and 81% of the enclave's infrastructure is damaged or destroyed, leaving children with few safe spaces for recreation.

The event, part of the international solidarity initiative 'Swimming with Gaza,' saw children practicing their newly acquired skills under the watchful eyes of their monitors. The Tantesh Academy aims to teach swimming to approximately 2,500 children monthly, with a goal of reaching 10,000 by October. The academy was founded by Ámyad Tantesh, whose brother, Bahya Tantesh, a vice president of the Palestinian Karate Federation in Gaza, was killed last year in an Israeli attack while fleeing his home.

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We have our own means, and we know how to play. Our defense is no longer so defensive; enemies must expect an attack.