Exactly a decade ago, on the night of June 2, 2015, the town of Hawija in Iraq was struck by a devastating bombing. The Dutch air force, in an attempt to target a facility, caused destruction and chaos in the town. The aftermath of this tragic event has left a lasting impact on the survivors, who are still struggling to put their lives back together.

The bombing of Hawija not only caused physical damage, but it also shattered the lives of the people living there. Families lost their loved ones, homes were destroyed, and the once peaceful town was left in ruins. The survivors were left to pick up the pieces of their shattered lives and start afresh.

Ten years have passed since that fateful night, but the memories of the bombing still haunt the survivors. They have been through unimaginable pain and suffering, but their resilience and determination have kept them going. Despite the challenges they have faced, the survivors have not lost hope and have been working tirelessly to rebuild their lives.

The road to recovery has not been easy for the people of Hawija. Many have lost their livelihoods and are struggling to make ends meet. The bombing destroyed the town’s infrastructure, leaving many without access to basic necessities like clean water and electricity. The survivors have had to rely on the support of humanitarian organizations and the government to meet their daily needs.

However, amidst all the difficulties, there have been glimmers of hope and progress. The survivors of Hawija have shown incredible strength and unity in the face of adversity. They have come together to support each other and rebuild their community. With the help of NGOs and government aid, the town has slowly started to recover.

One of the most heartwarming stories to come out of Hawija is that of a group of women who have started a sewing collective. These women, who lost their husbands and homes in the bombing, have found solace in each other’s company and have turned their passion for sewing into a means of livelihood. They have not only created beautiful handmade products but have also formed a strong bond of sisterhood, supporting each other through their trauma.

Another inspiring story is that of a young boy, Ali, who lost both his legs in the bombing. Despite his disability, Ali has not let it hinder his spirit. He has learned to walk again with prosthetic legs and has even taken up sports like basketball. Ali’s determination and resilience have inspired many in Hawija, and he has become a symbol of hope for the survivors.

The survivors of Hawija have shown remarkable strength and resilience in the face of unimaginable tragedy. They have not only been working towards rebuilding their lives but have also been advocating for justice and accountability for the bombing. Their voices have been heard, and the Dutch government has acknowledged their mistake and has provided compensation to the survivors.

Today, ten years after the bombing, the town of Hawija is slowly but surely rising from the ashes. The survivors have shown that with determination and unity, anything is possible. They have not let the tragedy define them, but instead, they have used it as a driving force to rebuild their lives and community.

As we remember the tragic events of June 2, 2015, let us also celebrate the resilience and strength of the survivors of Hawija. They have not only survived but have also thrived in the face of adversity. Their stories serve as a reminder that hope and determination can overcome even the darkest of times. Let us continue to support and stand in solidarity with the survivors of Hawija, as they continue to rebuild their lives and their town.