Return to a ruined home

Jumaa Abed Saad returned to his family's farm in Cheikh Ijlin in January 2025, after being displaced for over a year. The property was nearly unrecognizable, with his home reduced to a broken concrete shell and the surrounding land covered in debris and overgrown vegetation.

Resilience of nature

Despite the destruction, Jumaa and his sons discovered that some roots of vines and fig trees had survived beneath the rubble. These plants had endured years of bombing by clinging to a damp clay layer below the surface, showing unexpected resilience.

Agricultural legacy under threat

The land, known for its grape and fig cultivation over three generations, now faces challenges from disease and environmental damage. The area has become a "large incubator of diseases" due to the spread of insects and rodents, contributing to health issues like increased miscarriages.

Political developments in Israel

Meanwhile, elections are taking place in Israel, where political forces are shifting. The left is trying to regain influence after previous setbacks, reflecting broader changes in the region's political landscape.

Historical context of the publication

The article originates from a journal launched in 1908 in Boston by Mary Baker Eddy, founder of the First Church of Christ, Scientist. Though funded by the church, the journal promotes humanist values and aims to foster unity through measured and educational reporting.

Evolution of the publication

The journal stopped printing daily in 2009, shifting focus to its online presence while maintaining a weekly paper edition. It continues to emphasize a non-religious, unifying approach to news and issues.