Palestinian artist Dorgham Quraiqi killed in Gaza airstrike

On March 18, Palestinian artist Dorgham Quraiqi lost his life in an Israeli airstrike targeting the Shuja'iya neighborhood of Gaza City, alongside his wife and brothers. This assault was part of a series of strikes that dismantled the ceasefire established in January between Israel and Hamas. Quraiqi, a self-taught oil painter known for his figurative works, had showcased his art extensively in Gaza prior to the conflict and was in the process of preparing a solo exhibition at Shababeek for Contemporary Art, which was destroyed by Israeli forces in April 2024. He later focused on community initiatives, aiding children through education and trauma support with the UK charity Hope and Play, which praised his efforts in providing relief through cinema, swimming, and theater for thousands of displaced youth. A trustee emphasized his bravery in risking his life to help others, showcasing his creativity and generous spirit amidst the turmoil.