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March 15, 2024

Amid Ongoing Conflict Gaza's Children Bear Heavy Burdens

Written by Rajaa Jadili/UNRWA, Edited by Muslim Hands

Image Courtesy: UNRWA

In the southern city of Rafah, Gaza, seventh-grader Alaa's young life has been marred by the harsh realities of conflict. Displaced from her home in the al-Zaytoun neighborhood, Alaa now finds herself amidst a staggering 1.5 million people seeking shelter, their lives turned upside down.


Alaa's family, like many others, lives in a demolished building lacking even the most basic necessities.


“This place is very dark, and light only enters through narrow openings among remnants of debris. What’s even more difficult is the smell of gunpowder left behind by the rockets after the destruction of the building,” Alaa explained.


The overcrowded conditions in Rafah increase their hardship, leaving little room for hope amidst the rubble. Alaa's face reflects the anguish of destruction and loss that have become all too familiar in Gaza. The trauma she and countless other children endure will leave lasting scars, haunting their memories forever.


Yet amidst the despair, there flickers a flame of resilience. Alaa dreams of returning home, even if it means living amidst the ruins under a tent.

 

According to a report titled, “Nutrition Vulnerability and Situation Analysis – Gaza” produced by the Global Nutrition Cluster:

Over 90% of children between 6 and 23 months, as well as pregnant and breastfeeding women, face severe food poverty.

At least 90% of children below the age of five are affected by one or more infectious diseases.

Average household access to water is lower than one litre per person per day. Additionally, 81% of homes lack clean and safe water.


Muslim Hands

Muslim Hands was established in the UK in 1993. Muslim Hands is an international aid agency and NGO working in over 50 countries worldwide to help those affected by natural disasters, conflict and poverty. Muslim Hands Canada is a registered charity with the Canada Revenue Agency (Charity Registration No. 81126 4985 RR0001).