The Plight of Gaza's Orphans
In the midst of ongoing conflict, the situation for orphans in Gaza has reached a critical point. Children like Obaida Al-Astal express their despair, stating, "I am an orphan, no one is looking after us." The war has not only claimed lives but has also destroyed homes, leaving families like Umm Obeida's without shelter or basic necessities. Living in a dilapidated tent in Khan Yunis, she worries about the approaching winter, saying, "We don’t know what to do without tarps or nylon."
The Need for Psychological Support
The emotional toll on these children is immense. As Najla Al-Ghalayni from the Hope Institute for Orphan Care highlights, many orphans have witnessed unimaginable horrors, including the loss of parents and siblings. "Some of them saw their fathers without a head, some of them saw their mothers executed before their eyes," she reveals. The need for psychological care is urgent, yet it remains largely unmet amidst the chaos of war.
Growing Numbers of Orphans
UNICEF reports that the number of orphans in Gaza has skyrocketed, with estimates reaching around 17 thousand just three months ago. This number is expected to have increased significantly due to the ongoing violence. Al-Ghalayni emphasizes that orphans in Gaza require not just material support but also a safe and nurturing environment to heal from their traumatic experiences.
