The ongoing conflict in Gaza has left many children orphaned and struggling to survive in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions. The al Zag family is just one of many families living in a crowded tent camp in al Mawasi, a designated „humanitarian zone“ by Israel. With insufficient food, sanitation, and healthcare, the situation in Gaza has become dire for many families.
Before the war, al Mawasi was home to only a few thousand people. Now, with 86% of Gaza under evacuation orders, around 1.3 million people are crammed into the area. This overcrowding has led to families living near dumps and open sewage, resulting in the rapid spread of highly contagious skin conditions and the re-emergence of polio.
Mounir, a father in the al Zag family, describes the current situation as a nightmare. His children are suffering from skin rashes and allergies, exacerbated by chronic shortages of basic hygiene products. The price of soap has risen dramatically since the war began, making it difficult for families to maintain proper hygiene.
The Palestinian health ministry has reported running out of stock of 83% of medical supplies, including essential medicines. Despite the urgent need for aid, Israel tightly controls all crossings into Gaza, making it difficult for humanitarian missions to deliver much-needed supplies. In August, almost half of all humanitarian missions in Gaza were denied or impeded by Israeli authorities.
Food prices have doubled, and the cost of flour and meat has tripled due to shortages. In the north of Gaza, prices have risen more than tenfold, forcing many families to scavenge for food to survive. Renad Attallah, a 10-year-old girl with a passion for cooking, has raised awareness of the crisis in Gaza through her viral recipe videos on Instagram.
Malnutrition is a growing concern in Gaza, with over 14,000 children admitted to hospitals for treatment. However, with more than half of Gaza’s hospitals out of service, the real numbers may be far worse. Aid agencies have also warned of a mental health crisis among Gaza’s children, many of whom are already traumatized by previous rounds of fighting.
The situation in Gaza is dire, with children bearing the brunt of the conflict. As the international community continues to grapple with finding a solution to the ongoing crisis, it is crucial to prioritize the well-being and safety of Gaza’s most vulnerable population – its children.