The Impact of Conflict on Children: The Story of Julia Abu Warda
Finding the young girl captured in a photograph of Gaza detainees 🔗
A photograph captured during a chaotic moment in Gaza reveals a young girl named Julia Abu Warda among a group of men being detained by soldiers. The image shows her looking away, possibly from fear or distraction, while the men are ordered to strip for searches. After extensive efforts by BBC Arabic journalists, Julia, aged three, was found alive with her family in Gaza City after being displaced multiple times due to ongoing violence. Her father recounts the traumatic experiences they endured, including the loss of her cousin in a drone strike, highlighting the severe impact of the conflict on children. UNICEF reports that many children in Gaza require mental health support, as they are often witnesses to violence and loss.
What happened to Julia Abu Warda and her family during the conflict?
Julia and her family were displaced multiple times due to air strikes and gunfire. They were separated during a chaotic evacuation but were eventually reunited in Gaza City.
How has the conflict affected children in Gaza?
The conflict has resulted in the deaths of many children, with UNICEF reporting that 14,000 have been killed. Most children in Gaza are in need of mental health support due to the trauma they have experienced.
What was Julia doing when she was found by journalists?
When journalists found Julia, she was watching a cartoon with her family. Despite her physical safety, she exhibited wariness, reflecting the trauma she has faced.