The war in the Gaza Strip has taken a heavy toll on children, with many becoming orphans or amputees. Amidst this tragedy, 8-year-old Sama Tabeel stands out for losing almost all of her hair due to stress from the war. Sama covers her bald head with a pink bandana and is haunted by the sounds of shelling she experienced. Her mother, Olfat Tabeel, shares the pain of watching her daughter suffer and long for her lost hair. Doctors in Gaza have struggled to find a solution for Sama’s hair loss, citing psychological trauma as a key factor. The war has left lasting mental scars on children in Gaza, with reports of a decline in mental health and aspirations for the future.
The blockade imposed by Israel in Gaza has compounded the suffering of children, with high rates of suicidal thoughts reported among them. More than 40,000 people, including many children, have died in Gaza since the war began, leaving families shattered and traumatized. Sama’s hope of returning to her home in northern Gaza and finding her toys and dresses remains a distant dream. She clings to the hope that her hair will grow back by her ninth birthday. The psychological toll on Sama is evident, as she struggles with fear and nightmares. The heartbreaking story of Sama reflects the deep impact of war on innocent children in Gaza, highlighting the urgent need for mental health support and peace in the region.
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