Shell-Shocked

On the Ground Under Israel's Gaza Assault

By: Mohammed Omer

Narrated by: Suzanne Toren

Operation Protective Edge, launched in early July 2014, was the third major Israeli assault on the Gaza Strip in six years. It was also the most deadly. By the conclusion of hostilities some seven weeks later, 2,200 of Gaza's population had been killed, and more than 10,000 injured.

In this book, journalist Mohammed Omer, a resident of Gaza who lived through the terror of those days with his wife and then three-month-old son, provides a first-hand account of life on-the-ground during Israel's assault. The images he records in this extraordinary chronicle are a literary equivalent of Goya's Disasters of War: children's corpses stuffed into vegetable refrigerators, pointlessly because the electricity is off; a family rushing out of their home after a phone call from the Israeli military informs them that the building will be obliterated by an F-16 missile in three minutes; donkeys machine-gunned by Israeli soldiers under instructions to shoot anything that moves; graveyards targeted with shells so that mourners can no longer tell where their relatives are buried; fishing boats ablaze in the harbor.

Throughout this carnage, Omer maintains the cool detachment of the professional journalist, determined to create a precise record of what is occurring in front of him. But between his lines the outrage boils, and we are left to wonder how a society such as Israel, widely-praised in the West as democratic and civilized, can visit such monstrosities on a trapped and helpless population.

©2015 Mohammed Omer (P)2015 Audible, Inc.

Devastating firsthand accounts

Filled with devastating firsthand accounts of living under Israeli occupation and assault. So many traumatic stories and senseless violence from the occupier. A must read.

Shell-Shocked

"Shell-Shocked" by Mohammed Omer is a gripping and eye-opening account of the author's experiences during Israel's assault on Gaza. Omer's firsthand narrative takes readers on a harrowing journey, providing a deeply personal perspective on the devastating impact of the conflict on the lives of ordinary people.

What makes this book particularly relevant today is its ability to shed light on the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region. Omer's vivid descriptions and poignant storytelling bring to life the struggles faced by the people of Gaza, highlighting the urgent need for attention and action. By delving into the human cost of the conflict, "Shell-Shocked" serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of seeking peaceful resolutions and addressing the root causes of such conflicts.

Moreover, the book offers valuable insights into the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, encouraging readers to critically examine the political, social, and historical factors at play. Omer's account challenges prevailing narratives and invites readers to question their own preconceptions, fostering a deeper understanding of the multifaceted nature of the conflict.

In a world where conflicts persist and humanitarian crises continue to unfold, "Shell-Shocked" remains a timely and relevant read. It serves as a call to action, urging individuals, policymakers, and the international community to prioritize the pursuit of peace, justice, and the well-being of all those affected by such conflicts.

Overall, "Shell-Shocked" is a powerful and thought-provoking book that not only provides a firsthand account of a specific conflict but also prompts readers to reflect on the broader issues of war, human rights, and the pursuit of peace. It is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and its ongoing impact on the lives of those involved.

Repetitive...

I confirm stopped listening after hearing the same material repeated several times. After hearing the same death statistics repeated for the 4th time, and having other subjects also repeated numerous times...I was done. Could've been a good listen, but.....