Gaza Herald- Displacement amid the ongoing war in Gaza has significantly worsened the conditions of people with disabilities, exposing them to compounded physical and psychological hardship, according to testimonies from affected individuals.
Jouad Hamada, a young man with a motor disability caused by cerebral palsy, described how repeated displacement has transformed his daily life into a constant struggle for survival and dignity. “The war was difficult, but displacement has been far worse,” he said.
Forced to leave his home due to escalating bombardment, Jouad has been moving between shelters and temporary locations that lack basic accessibility. He highlighted severe challenges, including the inability to move freely, inadequate sleeping conditions, and shortages of food and water.
Humanitarian assistance, he noted, has often failed to reach him due to distribution systems that do not account for the needs of people with disabilities, particularly in areas with damaged infrastructure and limited access.
The psychological impact has also been profound. “Displacement breaks something inside you,” he said, describing feelings of loss, instability, and isolation.
Jouad’s experience reflects the broader reality faced by thousands of people with disabilities in Gaza, who remain among the most vulnerable during the crisis. International estimates indicate that this group faces compounded risks, including limited mobility, lack of medical support, and barriers to accessing aid.
Humanitarian organizations have increasingly been urged to adopt inclusive response mechanisms that ensure equitable access to assistance, particularly for those unable to reach distribution points.
Despite the hardships, Jouad pointed to community solidarity as a source of resilience. “We shared what little we had and tried to support one another,” he said.
His story underscores the urgent need for targeted support to protect the rights and dignity of persons with disabilities amid ongoing displacement and humanitarian collapse in Gaza.
