Rescue Tiger Laziz
From Gaza's "worst zoo" to a new life at LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary
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Laziz, a male tiger born in 2007, found sanctuary at LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary in South Africa on 25 August 2016. His journey to safety began in the war-torn Gaza Strip, where he was rescued as part of a landmark mission by FOUR PAWS to save the last remaining animals from the infamous Khan Younis Zoo.
Rescued from the "Worst Zoo in the World"
Khan Younis Zoo gained international notoriety when heartbreaking images of mummified animals circulated in global media, earning it the label of “the worst zoo in the world.” Amid worsening conditions and ongoing conflict, FOUR PAWS led negotiations with the zoo owner, who ultimately agreed to surrender the animals and shut down the facility permanently.
In August 2016, all 15 surviving animals—including Laziz—were evacuated and rehomed at sanctuaries and rescue centres around the world. Some of the rescued animals were taken to the New Hope Centre in Jordan, a facility that forms part of the Al Ma’wa for Nature and Wildlife, co-funded by FOUR PAWS and the Princess Alia Foundation.
A Surviour of Conflict and Loss
Laziz’s story is one of survival against all odds. He was the only big cat left at the zoo after Israeli airstrikes in 2014 partially destroyed the facility. Many animals perished either directly from the bombing or from starvation in the aftermath. Tragically, Laziz’s companion was among those who died.
There were unconfirmed reports suggesting that Laziz may have originally come from Australia, possibly trafficked through Hamas-dug tunnels used to smuggle goods and animals into Gaza. However, investigations by Australian authorities could not verify this claim.
A Peaceful Future at LIONSROCK
After arriving at LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary, Laziz was placed in Tiger Unit 2, where he began to enjoy the safety, care, and spacious environment he had never known. In February 2024, he was relocated to a newly constructed Special Care Unit (SCU) for tigers—an upgrade designed to provide enhanced comfort and support tailored to his individual needs.
Laziz’s journey stands as a powerful reminder of the resilience of animals and the importance of global collaboration in animal welfare. Through the tireless efforts of organisations like FOUR PAWS, animals like Laziz are given the second chance they so deeply deserve.
