Palestinian photojournalist Hamza Chalan is set to arrive in South Africa next month. [Picture: TRT]
Whether he’s clambering up piles of rubble or confronting death, Hamza Chalan responds to the call of duty in war-torn Gaza. It’s just him, his camera, helmet and press vest on a quest to tell the world a story.
Speaking during an interview with Salaamedia on Friday, the Gaza-based photojournalist shared what it was like to document a genocide in real time. Soon, he will be touring South Africa to share the stories behind his snaps.
“It’s my responsibility to tell the world the truth,” he said. Based in Jabalia Refugee Camp, northern Gaza, Chalan confronts the horrors of war every day. Each day, he risks his life to tell the world about life (and death) amidst ongoing Israeli bombardment that has not spared journalists.
“The Palestinians don’t want someone to just stand with them without the truth … Hundreds of massacres happened in Gaza and we cover it, and we deliver it to the outside world,” he said.
At least 42 500 people have been killed and 99 546 injured in Israel’s genocidal war on Gaza since 7 October 2023. As the death toll mounts, so does pressure for an end to the brutality.
Chalan’s ‘Through My Lens’ tour, set to take place in November, will see him bring the tales of Gaza to South African shores. Follow along on our social media pages for updates on venues, dates and more. The tour is part of Salaamedia’s dedication to humanitarian journalism.
