Artists bring small joy to devastated Gaza

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On a concrete slab amid rubble and war-destroyed buildings, calligrapher and artist Hani Dahman dips his brush in paint and carefully writes in Arabic: "Welcome, Ramadan." Children gather behind him, watching each stroke.

Entire blocks stand hollowed, their facades torn away after more than two years of relentless fighting and bombardment that have left much of Gaza in ruins and displaced most of its people. 

Historic landmarks, once symbols of community life, lie shattered, and the broader reconstruction of the territory is stalled by ongoing humanitarian and political challenges.  

Yet from one shattered balcony to another, strands of red Ramadan decorations are draped across the ruins. Volunteers step carefully over the wreckage, helping with decorations.

For Muslims in Gaza, Ramadan - expected to begin in late February this year - is a time of fasting from dawn to sunset, prayer, community and reflection.  

"We are here in Khan Younis camp, trying to bring happiness to the hearts of children, women, men and entire families," Dahman said.

"From one of the most devastated neighborhoods in Khan Younis - where the bodies of martyrs still remain beneath the rubble - we are making it more beautiful and sending a message to the world that we are people who seek life," he added.

Nearby, resident Mohammed Taniri watched the decorations take shape.

"When they provide such beautiful, simple decorations, it brings joy to the children. Despite all the struggle, they are trying to create a beautiful atmosphere," he said.