As the war in Gaza continues to take its toll on residents, families with disabilities find themselves disproportionately affected, suffering from a lack of resources and support.
# Struggles of Gazans with Disabilities Amid Ongoing Conflict
# Struggles of Gazans with Disabilities Amid Ongoing Conflict
In the wake of the Gaza conflict, families with disabilities face unprecedented challenges, highlighting an urgent humanitarian crisis.
In Gaza, the ongoing conflict has forced many families with members who have disabilities into unimaginable circumstances. These families have had to navigate the chaos of warfare while also dealing with the logistical and emotional struggles that come with disabilities.
Zuhair Abu Odeh, a father of three from northern Gaza, and his 9-year-old daughter, Lara, who uses a wheelchair, are among those caught in the turmoil. When evacuation orders were issued by the Israeli military, Abu Odeh hurriedly fled with his daughter, only to confront additional adversity when her wheelchair became unusable due to damage from the poor conditions. Abu Odeh carried Lara on his back for hours alongside his sons to reach Nuseirat, nine miles south.
Mr. Abu Odeh expressed despair regarding their living conditions, stating, "We’re living through impossible times." Countless individuals with disabilities in Gaza share similar experiences, forced to confront daily challenges that arise from the lack of basic necessities, including food, water, and sanitation.
The situation has been exacerbated for those with disabilities by the severe shortages of medical and mobility devices. People who require wheelchairs, hearing aids, and other assistive devices face steep obstacles as resources dwindle. The infrastructure in Gaza, such as roads and accessible facilities, has also sustained significant damage, creating further barriers.
In response to the crisis, Mr. Abu Odeh managed to obtain a new wheelchair for Lara in February, which offered some relief. However, the difficulties of navigating through makeshift camps and rugged terrain continue to challenge their daily lives. This ongoing conflict not only impacts physical health but profoundly affects mental well-being, especially among families facing these compounded hardships.
As the situation persists, the international community faces a pressing need to prioritize the humanitarian needs of vulnerable populations in Gaza, ensuring that those with disabilities are not left behind in times of crisis.
