‘It fails under testing, but it’s what we have’: ban forces Palestinians to make their own cement from rubble

With Israel blocking imports of building materials, those rebuilding in Gaza are recycling ruins to make new homes. It is difficult to see through the dust inside the cramped, low-roofed tent on the eastern edge of Khan Younis. Ibrahim al-Aloul works alongside four others, with a piece of fabric tied over his mouth and nose as his only shield against the toxic grey powder as he sifts and grinds.Outside, a skinny donkey waits with a cart to carry the finished product to the next tent along, where it will be mixed with gypsum, calcium and binding agents before being bagged in flour sacks and sold. Continue reading...