Gaza Children Forget Colors of Food Amid Wartime Destruction

Gaza Children Forgotten Colors of Food as War Rages On

A two-year-old conflict has taken a devastating toll on Gaza’s children, including Maria Al Fiqi, who cannot identify colors or shapes of food. The UN reports over 50,000 child casualties, while half a million face catastrophic conditions due to widespread famine.

Israel’s bombardment has left the housing in shambles, forcing families like Maria’s to move into tent camps. Her family lost their home in Jabalia refugee camp after it was destroyed early in the war. The UN-established camp is now an urban neighborhood with hundreds of other displaced families.

Experts warn that famine will spread south in the coming weeks, affecting areas such as Deir al Balah where Maria’s family lives. As the situation worsens, UNICEF reports a stark reality: Gaza children have lost touch with the basics – including colors and shapes of food.

Source: https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2025/08/childhood-gaza-water-food/684007