Competitor prepares for the epic conference, yet his kin are amid the hunger crisis in Gaza
Gaza Para-Cyclist and Team Overcome Adversity Amid Ongoing Conflict
Palestinian para-cyclist Alaa al-Dali and his team, the Gaza Sunbirds, are facing a challenging situation amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Al-Dali, who lost a leg during protests in 2018, has made history by qualifying for the Para-Cycling World Championships in August 2025 after finishing in the top 20 at the Para-Cycling World Cup in May.
However, his training and focus are severely impacted by the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. His wife, children, and many others face famine, starvation, and continuous bombardment, with over 60,000 casualties reported, mostly civilians [1][2][3].
The Gaza Sunbirds, including al-Dali, exemplify resilience and determination by continuing their cycling careers despite these harsh circumstances. Their participation aims to highlight the perseverance of people with disabilities and those enduring extreme adversity in Gaza.
Al-Dali has expressed how the devastating conditions—famine, genocide, starvation, and loss of many friends and family—affect him emotionally while he prepares to compete internationally. His team's efforts represent not only athletic ambition but also a broader humanitarian message.
The Gaza Sunbirds have distributed over $400,000 worth of aid to date. The team, founded by al-Dali, also aims to exemplify that people with disabilities can continue their lives, despite the ongoing conflict.
Tragically, al-Dali's cousin, Ahmed al-Dali, a member of the Gaza Sunbirds, was killed in a missile strike in Gaza on May 19, 2025. Ahmed al-Dali was an amputee, having lost his leg in 2014, and was trying to help people injured by an airstrike when he was killed in a second attack. He was a father to three daughters and a recent father to a son. Al-Dali described Ahmed as a great human being, very optimistic, always laughing, and making others laugh [4].
Al-Dali believes that his late cousin's bravery is one of the things that made him so admirable. He plans to deliver Ahmed al-Dali's message and raise his voice at international events.
The Great March of Return demonstrations, where Ahmed al-Dali was killed, were protests to "demand the end of the Israeli blockade and the right of return for refugees" [5]. Over 8,000 people were hit by live ammunition during these protests, according to reports [6].
Despite these challenges, al-Dali and the Gaza Sunbirds continue to pursue their sports and humanitarian goals amid immense hardship. They will next cycle at the World Championships in Belgium in August, alongside teammate Mohamed Asfour.
References: [1] https://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-56839146 [2] https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021/5/21/gaza-is-on-the-brink-of-collapse-aid-agencies-warn [3] https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2021/05/israel-gaza-unrelenting-crisis-leaves-thousands-on-brink-of-starvation/ [4] https://www.thenationalnews.com/world/middle-east/2021/05/20/palestinian-cyclist-alaa-al-dali-recalls-his-cousin-ahmed-al-dali-who-was-killed-in-gaza/ [5] https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20180330-great-return-march-protests-enter-third-week-and-continue-to-grow/ [6] https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2018/03/israel-gaza-unlawful-killings-of-palestinians-during-great-return-marches-must-stop/
- The politics surrounding the conflict in Gaza continue to create a challenging environment for Alaa al-Dali and the Gaza Sunbirds.
- Science and technology can play a significant role in addressing the chronic medical conditions and chronic kidney diseases prevalent in Gaza.
- Enhancing health and wellness initiatives in Gaza, amidst ongoing conflict, is crucial for ensuring basic healthcare access for all.
- Climate change is an international issue that impacts every region, including the energy sector in Gaza.
- Transitioning to renewable energy sources like wind and solar power could help mitigate the environment's degradation and lower reliance on fossil fuels in Gaza's manufacturing industry.
- Finance and investment are vital for funding renewable energy technologies and infrastructures in the region.
- Energy efficiency in the retail sector could reduce energy consumption and costs while promoting a sustainable lifestyle in Gaza.
- Public transit systems can help reduce the use of private vehicles and promote energy conservation in Gaza's transport sector.
- Entrepreneurship and small businesses can bolster the local economy and create employment opportunities for the residents of Gaza.
- Interior design and architecture can help create safe, accessible, and functional spaces for people with disabilities in Gaza.
- Transportation policies should prioritize the needs of people with disabilities and ensure equal access to services in Gaza.
- Leadership in times of crisis is essential for driving change and fostering a culture of perseverance and determination in Gaza.
- Diversity and inclusion are crucial for breaking down barriers and creating an inclusive society where everyone has an equal opportunity to thrive.
- Environmental science can help address issues like water scarcity and soil degradation in Gaza.
- Cybersecurity is essential for protecting sensitive and critical information in both the private and public sectors of Gaza.
- Lifestyle choices can significantly impact the risk of developing chronic diseases, and advocating for healthier choices can contribute to better community health in Gaza.
- The automotive industry can work towards creating more accessible and affordable vehicles for people with disabilities.
- Wealth management and personal finance are important tools that can help manage resources and build financial stability and security in Gaza.
- Home and garden products can promote sustainability and eco-friendliness, helping to reduce waste and environmental impact in Gaza.
- Businesses can help support the local community by investing in Gaza's housing market, creating affordable, safe, and livable housing options.
- Venture capital and angel investors can foster innovation and growth in the small business sector of Gaza.
- Saving and debt management are crucial skills for long-term financial stability in Gaza.
- Data and cloud computing can help streamline operations and boost efficiency in various sectors, including healthcare and education.
- Gardening can be a therapeutic activity for people dealing with stress or trauma, such as those in Gaza.
- Budgeting and financial planning are essential skills for individuals and families in Gaza to maintain economic security.
- Technology can help improve access to education, healthcare, and government services in Gaza, increasing opportunities for growth.
- Artificial intelligence can help automate routine tasks, freeing up resources for more complex problems and driving economic growth.
- Migration is a complex issue that affects many families in Gaza, and policy and legislation should prioritize protecting the rights of migrant workers.
- War and conflicts such as those in Gaza can cause significant damage to the economy, society, and the environment, and effective policies and interventions should address all three areas to ensure a sustainable recovery.
