Unprecedented orphan crisis in Gaza leaves tens of thousands of children without family support

Amid devastated infrastructure and ongoing insecurity, these children face severe psychological and physical hardship.

A report aired by Al Jazeera highlighted the human toll, featuring a grandmother caring for her orphaned grandchildren who still wait by the window for their mother to return. “They feel the huge emptiness,” she said. “We try to make up for it as much as we can.”

Another child described taking responsibility for four siblings and cousins after his parents were killed. “Life is very difficult,” he said, adding that no one can replace a mother’s or father’s affection.

UNICEF regional spokesperson Salim Oweis said official figures likely underestimate the scale of the tragedy. More than 3,000 children have lost both parents, many after direct strikes on homes and neighborhoods. Some have been left permanently disabled.

Oweis said efforts are focused on reunifying children with extended family members and providing psychological and financial support, but needs far exceed available resources.

UNRWA media adviser Adnan Abu Hasna said 94 percent of Gaza’s schools have been completely destroyed. Limited education has resumed through temporary schools and tent classrooms serving about 300,000 children, including 70,000 attending in person.

Orphaned children are being prioritized for medical, psychological and social care, he said, but shortages of classrooms, supplies and winter clothing remain acute.

Although active fighting has ended, the impact of Zionist regime’s genocide, launched in October 2023, continues to define the lives of hundreds of thousands of children who have lost limbs, senses or family members, becoming long-term victims of war, blockade and deprivation.