Israel's conflict pushes Gaza children into workforce to support their families

Carrying hot drinks through the bustling streets of Gaza City, 15-year-old Palestinian Mohammed Ashour calls out to people, hoping to sell a cup of coffee. Normally, Mohammed would be attending school, but after his father was killed in Israels conflict in Gaza, he has taken on the responsibility of supporting his family.

This isnt something I should have to do, Mohammed told Al Jazeera. Carrying thermoses and cups all day is exhausting, but I have to work to feed my brothers and sisters.

Mohammed is among a growing number of children in Gaza forced into work due to the war. With over 39,000 children having lost one or both parents and the local economy in ruins, even children as young as eight are taking on jobs to help their families survive, sacrificing both their education and their childhood.

Mohammeds mother, Atad Ashour, explained that the family had no choice. After his father died, we had no income, she said. My older sons couldnt find work, and I couldnt provide for the household. Hes still just a child, but he has responsibilities that arent his.

Humanitarian organizations in Gaza report that children are facing increased burdens that would normally fall on adults. Tess Ingram, a UNICEF spokesperson, said, We are seeing children rummaging through waste, collecting scrap, or selling coffee. We are working with partners to reduce these harmful coping mechanisms, offering cash assistance, raising awareness about child labor risks, and helping families regain employment.

From Ramallah, Rachel Cummings, humanitarian director for Save the Children in Gaza, noted that the collapse of family structures is pushing children into caring roles for siblings and other relatives. Families are disrupted, and children are extremely vulnerable. This situation is having a serious impact on their well-being, she said.

The statistics reveal a dire reality for Gazas children, nearly half of whom are under 18. Over 660,000 children are currently out of school, and approximately 132,000 face severe malnutrition, according to Save the Children.

Al Jazeera correspondent Hind Khoudary, reporting from Gaza City, emphasized that the loss of parental breadwinners has forced children into roles they should not have to assume. These children should be learning and playing, not working. The war has had a devastating effect on them, she said.

After another long day earning money for his family, Mohammed walks past a school, wishing he could be a student again. If my father were alive, I would be at home going to school, he said.

Author: Sophia Brooks