For over 86 years, Palestinians have endured ongoing displacement, military occupation, and violence. However, the current genocide has placed an unprecedented psychological burden on Palestinian children. The toll of repeated evictions, airstrikes, and loss has created a crisis that extends beyond physical destruction—severely damaging the mental health of the youngest generation.
Reports indicate that 88% of Palestinian children have been displaced more than once, while 21% have been displaced six times or more. This relentless upheaval has left 96% of children believing they are likely to die, and 92% struggling to process the reality around them. These figures point to the long-term psychological scars left by war and instability, defining a childhood shaped by trauma and loss.
A Generation Growing Up in Trauma
Even before October 2023, Palestinian children lived under military isolation. Over the past 17 years, Gaza has faced six major invasions, each bringing heavy casualties and destruction. The exposure to violence has led to developmental and emotional challenges, impacting their growth and well-being.
Today, the ongoing genocide intensifies these effects. Children in Gaza witness the destruction of their homes, schools, and communities, forcing them to grow up without a sense of safety. 87% of Palestinian children now display severe fear, and 79% experience frequent nightmares. The psychological strain manifests in behavior, with 73% exhibiting aggression and 77% unable to openly discuss their trauma.
Studies highlight that the rates of PTSD among Palestinian children can reach 70%, varying depending on their proximity to violence and displacement. A recent survey showed 80% of children in Gaza suffer from emotional distress, while nearly half (49%) have reported suicidal thoughts.
The Long-Term Consequences of War
As war continues to disrupt daily life, the long-term impact on Palestinian youth is becoming increasingly clear. Continuous exposure to trauma, displacement, and airstrikes hinders their psychological development. This affects their ability to build social connections, cope with daily stress, and maintain a sense of hope for the future.
Basic needs like healthcare, education, and safe environments are becoming harder to access, leaving children without the necessary resources to recover. Malnutrition, lack of clean water, and deteriorating sanitation further compound the crisis, increasing the risk of long-lasting trauma across future generations.
Organizations Respond with Urgent Support
In response to the escalating crisis, humanitarian organizations like UNICEF, Save the Children, and Anera have increased their efforts to provide aid to Palestinian children. Psychosocial support sessions, supervised play, and emergency food distributions have become essential lifelines for children affected by war.
While immediate aid is crucial, organizations emphasize that only lasting peace and stability can safeguard Palestinian children’s futures.
Palestinian children need support now more than ever. As the conflict continues, collective action and awareness are essential in protecting the future of Gaza’s youth.
Related Stories:
UN Report Reveals nearly 70% of those killed in Gaza were children and women
Malaysia, Pakistan, Maldives Urge immediate end to ‘systematic genocide’ in Gaza
1 year of Gaza genocide: How Pakistanis boycotted companies supporting Israel
