Every now and again a book comes along which hits you right between the eyes. This is one of those books.
The war in Gaza has been going on for decades but its latest iteration is particularly stark. Journalist as not allowed into the Gaza except on a few highly controlled excursions escorted by the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) and, with over 100 local journalists killed, finding out what’s really going on is very difficult.
Richard Villar is a distinguished orthopaedic surgeon with extensive experience as a surgeon in war zones, having served as a medic in the British SAS. He recently volunteered his skills and services to help treat the people of Gaza and on returning from that assignment earlier this year, has now written a book documenting his experiences.
“Gaza Medic” is the result of time in a war zone. It is apolitical – no easy feat when you realise the barbaric nature of the Israel/Gaza conflict. It gives a first hand account of life working as a war surgeon in the most appalling conditions and with limited resources, alongside fellow volunteer medics and local medical staff.
As someone who is not a great reader, I found this book hard to put down. It is undoubtedly harrowing at times but it is honest and un-opinionated. It also gives an insight and perspective on what is really happening in Gaza and how the Gazan’s feel largely abandoned by the rest of the world when they most need us.
In an earlier feature – Same Planet, Another World – Eye for the Light recounted one Gazan’s personal story of life there earlier this year. Gaza Medic gives you a non-Gazan’s perspective but from inside the war zone.
I was lucky enough to receive an advanced preview copy of this manuscript and reviewed it then. This is what I wrote:
‘In these days of ‘instant’ news and sensationalist, judgemental, polarised social media posts, we all have an opinion on everything. This book exposes the naivety of these quick judgements and takes the reader into an all too real and complex world of life in a war zone, where systematic devastation is the norm. This book reveals the frontline behind the frontline, the line dealing with the human tragedy of war. The unreported short and long term consequences. The army of people who try to treat the wounded regardless of personal safety or consequences. When a conflict reaches this level of depravity, it is no longer about right or wrong.
Gaza Medic rips the shrouds from the political posturing and propaganda, touching on daily realities for the people of Gaza. It highlights, too, that no matter what the outcome of this war, the people on the ground live without hope and with a blighted future. In Gaza there are only losers. It’s also a testament to human spirit and fortitude of both the victims and the people who place themselves at the forefront of caring for them. They all deserve our utmost respect.
Read it, even if you think you know what is happening! Read it regardless of your political or religious allegiances. It is the worst and the best of humanity. It’s a wake up call to the world and our so called leaders. It is a cry for the return of truth in our manipulated world. Read it and open your eyes to the reality of conflict and human-induced famine, then dig deep to find empathy. Just read it!‘
Now that I’ve received the published copy, I find myself revisiting all the emotions which coursed through my veins first time around. It’s difficult to describe those feelings, other than to say, sat here safe in England, that it quietly emotive but stimulates anger at the way this barbaric conflict has been allowed to continue.
It’s definitely a book which you should read, but be prepared to be confronted by a world which won’t sit easily in your mind. It’s a world that will stay with you and probably always should as a reminder of all that we get wrong in this world, and how adversity can sometimes bring out the best in us.
Gaza Medic – A War Surgeon’s Story 2024 is published by Pen & Sword. www.pen-and-sword.co.uk
Contact Richard Villar and see his other work from his website