Rafah, Gaza Strip – In the midst of conflict and tragedy, social media influencer Ibrahim Hassouna, known as Kazanova, has emerged as a symbol of resilience and hope in Gaza. With a large Instagram following of 440,000, Hassouna used to share light-hearted videos showcasing his life in Gaza, often featuring his family, particularly his mother. However, his world changed dramatically on February 12 during an Israeli military operation that resulted in the loss of most of his family members, including his parents, brother, sister-in-law, nieces, and nephew. The devastating loss left him questioning how to move forward without his loved ones.
In Gaza, where young social media activists shed light on the realities of living in a conflict zone, Hassouna’s posts shifted from cheerful moments to showcasing the harsh reality of war. Despite the turmoil, he tried to uplift his family and followers with heartfelt videos and gestures, such as making falafel sandwiches for children and taking his mother on a market outing for a change of atmosphere. However, behind the camera, the harsh conditions of war and loss weighed heavily on his family.
The tragic events of February 12 unfolded as Israeli forces conducted a hostage rescue mission in Rafah, leading to a series of airstrikes in the area. In the aftermath, Hassouna faced the heartbreaking task of identifying and collecting the remains of his family members from the strike site. The emotional toll of losing his entire family in one night was immeasurable, as he navigated grief and devastation in the midst of ongoing conflict.
Reflecting on the complexities of the conflict, Hassouna acknowledged the challenges faced by both sides and the devastating impact on innocent lives. Despite the loss and trauma, he remains determined to honor his family’s memory by spreading happiness and hope in the community. As he navigates the pain of his loss, a rainbow overhead serves as a symbolic reminder of resilience and the enduring strength passed down to him by his mother.