Photos in Gaza City, where the beach offers fleeting respite as war and famine grind on

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GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip (AP) — On a darkened beach in Gaza City, the only light comes from small food stalls and flickering cellphones.

Families seek relief from the stifling daytime heat, and perhaps a glimpse of the life they used to know. Many have been displaced multiple times over nearly two years of war sparked by Hamas' Oct. 7 attack into Israel.

Just a few kilometers (a few miles) away, Israeli forces are blowing up buildings in the opening stages of a plan to conquer the city. Israeli strikes could come at any time. Those enjoying the sea may soon be ordered to evacuate to sprawling tent camps further south.

There is a small amount of food for sale on vendor carts , at prices many can’t afford. Experts say Gaza City is experiencing famine.

Many Palestinians have lost everything in this war. They still have the sea, for now.

This is a photo gallery curated by AP photo editors.