The Tragic Reality of War: A 10-Year-Old’s Last Words
GAZA CITY, Jan 25 (Bernama-AA) – The 15-month-long genocide on Gaza has left an indelible mark on the lives of its residents, particularly its youngest victims. Among them is 10-year-old Azmi Abu Al-Shaar, who wrote a poignant message on his phone before being killed in an Israeli airstrike that targeted his family’s home.
A Child’s Awareness of Mortality
Written on March 19, 2024, the note reflects a child’s awareness of his mortality amid the destruction of homes and the killing of women and children. Azmi’s message, widely shared on social media, reads:
"Peace be upon you. If I die, forgive me, Mom, Dad, and my siblings Naeema, Shahed, Maryam, and Mahmoud. Mom and Dad, I am deeply sorry if I ever upset you. I feel like I don’t have much time left."
Azmi continued: "Mom, please take care of Mahmoud. Naeema, I’m sorry for bothering you. Shahed, Maryam, Mahmoud—I’m sorry to you all. I swear I love you all, and Grandma, Grandpa, my uncles, and everyone. I hope they forgive me."
The Human Cost of War
The Israeli genocide in Gaza has claimed the lives of more than 17,800 children, according to the latest statistics from the government media office in Gaza. During the war, many children wrote their names on their arms and bodies to help rescuers identify them in case they were killed or dismembered in the Israeli killing machine, a tragic reflection of the horrors endured by Gaza’s youngest residents.
A Ceasefire Agreement
A Gaza ceasefire agreement came into effect on Jan 19 and suspended Israel’s genocidal war that has killed nearly 47,300 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injured nearly 111,500 since Oct. 7, 2023. The three-phase agreement includes a prisoner exchange and sustained calm, aiming for a permanent truce and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
The Devastating Consequences
The Israeli onslaught has left Gaza in ruins, and its residents displaced, hungry, and prone to disease. The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants in November last year for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant for war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Israel also faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice for its war on the enclave.
Conclusion
The tragic story of Azmi Abu Al-Shaar serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of war on innocent civilians, particularly children. As the world grapples with the aftermath of the conflict, it is essential to acknowledge the human cost of war and work towards a future where such atrocities are prevented.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many children have been killed in the Israeli genocide in Gaza?
A: More than 17,800 children have been killed in the Israeli genocide in Gaza.
Q: What is the total number of Palestinians killed in the conflict?
A: Nearly 47,300 Palestinians, mostly women and children, have been killed in the conflict.
Q: What is the current status of the ceasefire agreement?
A: A three-phase agreement has been implemented, aiming for a permanent truce and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
Q: What are the consequences of the conflict on Gaza’s residents?
A: Gaza’s residents are displaced, hungry, and prone to disease, with many struggling to access basic necessities like food, water, and healthcare.