Classic cars come back in trend in Gaza

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
24 Aug 2023 15:14

Al-Shandi's works are proof that the restrictive measures of the occupation are no match to Palestinians' will to follow their passions.

A picture shows a 1946 Armstrong Siddeley Hurricane which was restored by Palestinian mechanic Munir Al-Shandi (AFP)

AFP reported on Thursday an interesting return of the classic car trending in the war-torn and besieged Gaza Strip.

The report documents the incredible works of car enthusiast Munir Al-Shandi, 42, in pursuing his hobby of restoring old cars.

Normally, under the excruciating measures imposed by the Israeli regime, following his passion would not be possible as the acquisition of crucial spare parts would require to be smuggled from outside the coastal enclave.

But the works of Al-Shandi are proof that the regime is no match for Palestinians' will to follow their passions.

"Everyone in the street is amazed and asks to take pictures," the car mechanic told AFP as he showcased the replica of a 1929 Mercedes-Benz Gazelle he had assembled and restored in his workshop.

"The restoration would have been faster and the quality and shape better if the materials had been available."

1929 Mercedes-Benz Gazelle. (AFP)

Gaza has long been under a blockade imposed by the Israeli occupation, one that remained enforced despite numerous wars waged on the Strip by "Israel" and the destruction that has caused.

The regime prevents civilians from importing a range of goods under the pretext that some commodities may be used in producing explosives, such as car parts.

The reality, however, is that "Israel" imposes a land, air, and sea blockade on Gaza for the purpose of choking the civilian population and its resistance movement.

Gazans have launched rallies several times to protest the inhuman conditions they are subjected to under occupation -- including with the provision of crucial medical supplies -- but to no avail.