The United Nations estimates that, nearly four months into the conflict, at least 17,000 children in the Gaza Strip have been left unaccompanied or separated, as reported by AFP.

Jonathan Crickx, spokesperson for the UN children’s agency Unicef in the Palestinian territories, emphasized the heart-wrenching stories of loss and grief associated with each child.

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This figure accounts for approximately one percent of the overall displaced population in the Gaza Strip, which amounts to 1.7 million people. Crickx highlighted the difficulty in tracing these children, as they are often brought to hospitals while wounded or in shock, unable to provide their names.

He further noted that, during conflicts, it is common for extended families to take care of children who have lost their parents. The situation underscores the urgent need for humanitarian assistance and support for the affected children in Gaza, as they come to terms with the profound challenges of their new reality.