DaysofPal – Nearly 40,000 children in Gaza are facing an unprecedented tragedy after losing one or both parents in the largest orphan crisis in modern history.
The collapse of infrastructure and the absence of security have compounded the suffering of these children. Daily life unfolds under intense psychological and physical pressure, leaving many without stable shelter, education, or consistent care.
A report aired by Al Jazeera in its “Voices from Gaza” segment documented the experiences of children who lost their parents during the war. One grandmother, now caring for her grandchildren, described their longing for their mother and father. “They wait for their martyred mother by the window,” she said. “They feel the huge emptiness, but we try to compensate as much as we can.”
Another child recounted taking responsibility for four siblings and cousins after both parents were killed. He described his life as “very difficult,” stressing that the affection of grandparents cannot replace the tenderness of a mother and father.
UNICEF regional spokesperson Salim Oweis said official figures do not capture the full scale of the catastrophe. Some children lost their parents in direct strikes on their homes or neighborhoods, and others are living with permanent disabilities.
Oweis told Al Jazeera that more than 3,000 children have lost both parents. Many are now caring for younger siblings alone. Efforts focus on reunifying children with extended family members and providing psychological and financial support, though needs far exceed available resources.
Adnan Abu Hasna, media adviser for the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, said 94 percent of Gaza’s schools have been completely destroyed. Partial education has resumed through temporary schools and learning tents serving around 300,000 children, including 70,000 attending in-person classes.
Abu Hasna said orphaned children receive top priority in agency programs through health, physical, and psychological care. He noted widening challenges due to shortages of schools, classroom space, supplies, and clothing, particularly during winter and harsh weather conditions.
The impact of the war that began in October 2023 and lasted two years continues to shape the lives of hundreds of thousands of children who lost limbs, senses, or family members. Many now face long-term hardship linked to displacement, deprivation, and the enduring consequences of the conflict.
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