Full Breakdown
Marathon in Khan Younis Highlights Gaza’s Orphan Crisis
8/2/2026, 5:47:42 AM
Core Event
On a Friday in August 2026, International Networking for Humanitarian (INH) Indonesia organized a running event in Khan Younis, Gaza. Dubbed a “marathon,” the race gathered dozens of orphaned children, giving them a public space to run, receive medals, and be recognized. Among the participants was 13-year-old Saif Hijazi, who watched from his wheelchair after being paralysed by artillery shelling in January 2025. The organisers honoured 100 orphaned children, with Saif’s name called first as a tribute to his perseverance.
Background & Context
Since Israel’s war began in October 2023, Gaza health officials report more than 73,000 Palestinian deaths and over 174,000 injuries. UNICEF estimates that more than 58,000 children have lost one or both parents, and over one million need protection and psychosocial support. Approximately 17,000 children are unaccompanied or separated from families, creating one of the largest child-protection crises in the territory.
Key Figures & Groups
- Saif Hijazi – 13-year-old orphan, paralysed after artillery shelling.
- Mohammed Yassin – Project coordinator at INH Indonesia, organizer of the marathon.
- Samah Abu Amra – Mother of five, spokesperson for families affected by the orphan crisis.
Data & Statistics
- 58,000+ children have lost one or both parents (UNICEF).
- 73,000+ total Palestinian deaths since October 2023 (Gaza health officials).
- 1,000,000+ children need protection and psychosocial support (UNICEF).
- 17,000 children are unaccompanied or separated (UNICEF).
Official Statements & Responses
INH Indonesia’s Mohammed Yassin emphasized that orphaned children are among the groups most impacted by war, urging international organisations to increase humanitarian assistance. UNICEF’s figures underscore the scale of the child-protection emergency, calling for expanded psychosocial programmes and basic service provision. Local health officials continue to document civilian casualties, highlighting the ongoing humanitarian strain.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Orphans are always among the most affected groups in wars,” — Mohammed Yassin
- “Through these activities, we try to remind the world and encourage people to support them and provide sponsorship that can help them in their daily lives.” — Mohammed Yassin
- “My son needs to feel that he is still part of this world, that people see him and care about him,” — Warda Hijazi
Why It Matters
The marathon serves as a visible reminder of the humanitarian crisis facing Gaza’s orphaned children, linking personal stories to broader statistical realities. By bringing orphaned youths into a public, celebratory setting, the event seeks to galvanise international attention, sponsorship, and long-term support for a population that faces compounded loss, disability, and economic hardship. Continued advocacy and resource mobilisation are essential to address the extensive protection, health, and educational needs identified by UNICEF and local authorities.
