Gaza's children are facing severe hardships due to the ongoing war, which has lasted nearly a year. Jonathan Crickx, a UNICEF spokesperson who recently visited Gaza, reported that the situation for the 2.4 million residents, especially children, is dire. Since the conflict began on October 7, children have not been able to attend school, and their lives are devoid of normal childhood experiences like play and joy.
Many children are now helping their families instead of going to school. Crickx observed children carrying heavy plastic jerrycans filled with water, as clean water is scarce in the area. Some children are even using broken wheelchairs to transport water, highlighting the daily struggles they face. It's heartbreaking to see young children, as young as five or six, searching through piles of garbage for food for their families.
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Crickx shared a troubling story of a 10-year-old boy named Ahmad, who described the violent death of his uncle in graphic detail. Many children in Gaza have lost parents, and UNICEF estimates that around 19,000 children are unaccompanied or separated from their families. The ongoing conflict has completely disrupted education; 85% of school buildings are damaged, and no schools are currently open. Children have not had a single day of education in the past year, which has led to a loss of hope for many.
The humanitarian crisis also poses health risks. Poor hygiene conditions, high population density, and limited access to sanitation are creating a breeding ground for diseases. Hospitals in Gaza are largely non-functional, leaving many sick children without treatment. Crickx met children with serious health issues, like cancer or heart problems, who urgently need medical help but cannot receive it in the current environment.
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