Gaza Herald – The United Nations has warned that more than one million children in Gaza urgently require psychological and social support, as the territory continues to suffer the devastating consequences of more than two years of genocide, displacement, and systemic attacks.
According to a UN report, 96% of children in Gaza feel that death is imminent, reflecting what officials describe as a widespread mental health emergency rather than isolated psychological distress. The Israeli war, coupled with the destruction of healthcare systems and infrastructure, has left deep and lasting trauma across an entire generation.
Data from UN agencies show alarming levels of psychological disorders among young people, with 61% experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), 38% suffering from depression, and 41% from severe anxiety. Among adults, nearly one in five reportedly experiences recurring thoughts of suicide.
The report also highlights growing risks facing girls, including a sharp rise in child marriage and early pregnancy. Economic collapse, displacement, and lack of protection have pushed many families to marry off underage girls as a survival strategy. In some cases, girls as young as 14 to 16 have been granted marriage licenses, with actual figures believed to be higher.
At the same time, Gaza’s collapsing healthcare system is unable to meet basic maternal needs, with only a small percentage of facilities able to provide emergency obstetric and newborn care. This has significantly increased risks for young mothers and their infants.
The United Nations stressed that without urgent, integrated interventions combining mental health services with food, healthcare, and education support, the long-term psychological and social consequences for Gaza’s children could be irreversible.
