‘Generation of lost kids’: UNRWA Chief laments post-war future for Gazans

Philippe Lazzarini, the head of the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees, expresses concern about the future of Gazans following the conflict between Hamas and Israel

Philippe Lazzarini, the head of the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees, delivered a somber message Wednesday regarding the ominous future awaiting Gazans in the aftermath of the recent conflict between Hamas and Israel.

After completing his fourth visit to the Palestinian territory since the eruption of hostilities on Oct. 7, Lazzarini painted a distressing picture, stating that a growing number of residents find it increasingly challenging to envision a future in the Gaza Strip.

He expressed deep concern about the living conditions, with hundreds of thousands now residing in makeshift tents on the streets, sleeping on concrete.

The impact on Gaza’s population has been severe, with the majority of its 2.4 million residents forced from their homes. Lazzarini reported that over 60% of buildings are estimated to be damaged, particularly in the north, where extensive Israeli bombardment has left scores of residential blocks reduced to rubble.

“The north for us is a pocket of humanitarian catastrophe,” declared the UNRWA chief, emphasizing the challenges posed by unexploded ordnance (UXOs) and non-functioning services.

The toll on human lives has been devastating, with over 24,000 Palestinians, over 70% of them women, young children and adolescents, reported killed in Israeli bombardments and ground assaults, according to the Gaza health ministry’s latest figures.

Lazzarini expressed deep apprehension about the future, particularly for half a million children aged six to 14 who are estimated to have no access to education. He referred to them as a “generation of lost kids” facing brutal conditions and profound trauma.

“I fear that we have now a generation of lost kids,” he said, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the situation for the sake of future peace and security.

Despite months of diplomatic efforts between the conflicting parties and their allies, there is currently no public plan outlining post-war governance or reconstruction in Gaza. Lazzarini highlighted the need for a solid political project and roadmap, stating that without it, significant investments in rebuilding Gaza are unlikely.

“When we talk about rebuilding Gaza, it’s not anymore like before, where we had to rehabilitate some shelter and that was still doable,” remarked the UNRWA chief.

“I don’t see any country investing significantly in the absence of a solid, proper political project and roadmap. And for this, you need countries to trust in this roadmap,” he added.

Source: AFP