A new report sheds light on the devastating impact of the ongoing Israeli genocide on Gaza’s children, revealing that 96% of them feel their imminent death. This grim reality, marked by the trinity of genocide, hunger, and terror, has caused deep psychological trauma among Gaza’s youngest population. According to the survey, nearly half of Gaza’s children wish to die, reflecting the profound psychological toll of more than 14 months of relentless Israeli attacks.

The report, conducted by a Gaza-based NGO in partnership with the War Child Alliance, highlights the severe emotional and psychological consequences of the war. It shows that Gaza has become one of the most horrifying places in the world for a child, with many witnessing the destruction of their homes, schools, and hospitals. Helen Pattinson, chief executive of War Child UK, emphasized the "psychological destruction" caused by the ongoing violence, which has left invisible wounds on children who are blameless in the conflict.

The survey, which assessed the views of 504 children’s parents or caregivers, revealed widespread symptoms of trauma among Gaza’s youth, such as fear, anxiety, nightmares, sleep disorders, and social withdrawal. Many children have been displaced multiple times and have experienced the loss of loved ones or separation from their families. Over 44,000 Palestinians have been killed since October 7, 2023, with 44% of the victims being children, according to the UN. The trauma is especially acute for the 17,000 children who have been separated from their families, making them highly vulnerable to exploitation and abuse.

As the violence continues, the psychological impact on Gaza’s children is becoming more severe, with feelings of imminent death becoming commonplace. The report underscores that the consequences of these experiences will linger long after the war ends, affecting their social relationships and daily lives for years to come. With the international community urged to intervene, War Child aims to provide psychological support to a million children, marking its largest humanitarian response in over 30 years.