“Severed”: The Story of a Boy From Gaza

“Severed”: The Story of a Teen from Gaza
Mohamad Saleh, an 18-year-old from Gaza, has endured five wars, losing his home, family members, and his leg. The film “Severed,” produced in collaboration with The Nation, follows his journey to rebuild his shattered life.

The film “Severed” chronicles the life of Mohamad Saleh, an 18-year-old from Gaza who has faced the horrors of five major assaults on the Gaza Strip. Throughout these attacks, he lost his home, family members, friends, and at the age of 12, his leg. Currently residing in Egypt, Mohamad struggles to piece together the fragments of his life. Through his story, we witness the resilience and determination of the people of Gaza in the face of immense suffering.

The director of the film, Jen Marlowe, shares her connection with Mohamad, recounting the harrowing experiences he endured in Gaza and the challenges they faced while creating the film.

Marlowe recalls the anxious nights following the events of October 7, when she reached out to her friends in Gaza, concerned for their safety. It was during this time that she discovered Mohamad’s heartbreaking post on Facebook, detailing the loss of his family members. Marlowe had first met Mohamad in 2019 and had helped him navigate the difficulties of seeking medical treatment outside Gaza. Despite their efforts, Mohamad’s leg was amputated in 2021, leading to further challenges and hardships.

The story continues as Mohamad and his mother evacuated Gaza amidst escalating violence, eventually finding refuge in Egypt. The journey to safety was fraught with obstacles, but Mohamad’s resilience and determination to rebuild his life shine through.

As Mohamad settles into his new life in Cairo, the film captures the ongoing struggles and traumas he faces, highlighting the resilience and strength of a young man who has endured unimaginable hardships. Through “Severed,” audiences are given a glimpse into the untold stories of survival and hope amid the devastation of conflict.