A senior UN official has voiced concerns over a potential “lost generation” in Gaza due to the extensive destruction caused by the war. The war, initiated by Israel in response to a massive attack by Hamas, has resulted in widespread damage to public and private buildings, including homes, schools, hospitals, and infrastructure.
The UN’s Office for the Co-ordination of Humanitarian Affairs (Ocha) reports that at least 60% of homes in Gaza have been destroyed or damaged, with nine out of ten schools suffering significant damage. The Commissioner General for UNRWA, Phillippe Lazzarini, warns that over half a million children in Gaza’s education system may face a bleak future amid the destruction, risking the loss of an entire generation.
The war has not only led to an unprecedented loss of life but also raised concerns about the long-term impact on the development and opportunities of the young population in Gaza.