In Gaza, 250 couples wed in mass ceremony amid rubble
Backed by the UAE, the event was chosen from 11,622 applicants to help young couples hit by the economic crisis.
A total of 250 couples took part in a mass wedding at the Sea Club area on Gaza City’s coast on Friday (6/11), amid damaged buildings and displacement tents. The event, titled Dress of Joy 3, was supported by the United Arab Emirates humanitarian program Operation Chivalrous Knight 3. Flower-decorated vehicles, red ribbons and Palestinian flags moved through the city streets, while residents greeted the brides and grooms. Organizers said the program was meant to help young Palestinian couples struggling financially so they could still marry. Interest was high, with 11,622 applicants, and 250 couples were selected after verification and screening. In Gaza, still grappling with the effects of war, some couples are even starting married life without a permanent home.