DaysofPal- A newly released statistical report by Gaza’s Ministry of Social Development has revealed a sharp rise in the number of orphans in the territory, with officials warning of an unprecedented humanitarian crisis affecting tens of thousands of children.
According to the report, the total number of orphans in Gaza has reached 64,616, including 55,157 children who lost their primary breadwinner during the ongoing war. The findings were published on Wednesday to coincide with Arab Orphan Day, highlighting the scale of suffering among one of the most vulnerable groups in the population.
The report identified Gaza City as the most affected area, with 21,125 orphans—representing 32.7 percent of the total. Officials said the figures reflect not only the human toll of the conflict but also the deepening social and economic strain on families and institutions struggling to cope.
Authorities warned that these children face challenges far beyond the loss of parents or guardians.
Many have been forcibly displaced, lost their homes, and are cut off from consistent healthcare and education. Severe shortages of food and medicine have further compounded their situation, heightening their risk of long-term harm.
“The scale of the crisis is overwhelming,” the ministry said in a statement, noting that the destruction of infrastructure and disruption of basic services have left many orphans without stable support systems.
The ministry emphasized that marking Arab Orphan Day this year serves as a call to action, urging greater solidarity and coordinated efforts to address the needs of these children.
It appealed to local and international organizations to prioritize critical areas, including monthly financial sponsorships, provision of basic living necessities, and the reconstruction of child-focused facilities damaged during the conflict.
Officials also stressed the importance of legal protections to safeguard the property and rights of orphans, alongside the urgent need for expanded psychosocial support programs to help children cope with trauma and loss.
Humanitarian groups warn that without immediate and sustained intervention, the growing number of orphans in Gaza could face lasting psychological, social, and economic consequences that extend well beyond the current crisis.
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