The Palestinian youth network shielding Gaza from unexploded ordnances.
More than a year into the conflict, the Israeli military’s intense and extensive bombing campaign has left Gaza littered with an estimated 37 million tonnes of debris. This devastation, coupled with countless unexploded ordnances still lying beneath the rubble, continues to pose a severe threat to life and limb, with demining campaigns in the Gaza strip estimated to take 14 years.
As Palestinians in Gaza have been forcibly displaced numerous times over the past year – and with many attempting to return to their homes in southern Gaza – the presence of unexploded ordnance will continue to pose a deadly threat for years to come. Experts estimate that around 10% of the explosives dropped on Gaza - approximately 7,000 tons - remain unexploded, posing a deadly threat to Palestinians as they return to the rubble of their destroyed homes.
Members of the Humanitarian Youth Group, supported by ActionAid, are at the forefront of humanitarian efforts in Gaza, focusing on raising residents' awareness about the dangers of unexploded ordnance. Khalid and Wala'a are part of this group and have conducted risk education sessions where they identified different types of unexploded ordnances, explained their risks, and taught protection methods. Other topics included recognising warning signs, practicing safe behavior, and handling emergency situations.
Youth Network Group members provide leaflets helping communities to spot and recognise unexploded ordance. Photo credit: Wattan Media Network/ActionAid