Israel’s Gaza Conflict Causes Severe Hardship for Autistic Children

Amid the ongoing turmoil in Gaza, families face grave challenges, particularly those caring for children with special needs. Abeer Hassan, a devoted mother from Deir el-Balah, exemplifies this struggle as she navigates the complexities of raising her autistic son, Abdallah, during a period of relentless upheaval.

Hassan describes the terrifying impact of continuous Israeli bombardments on Abdallah, who becomes increasingly anxious with each explosion. As families in their area are urged to flee, the sights of those escaping create anxiety for Abdallah, leading to difficulties in communication as he resorts to sign language to express his distress.

Initially, Hassan and her family sought refuge in the Ameera camp. Unfortunately, upon arrival, they discovered that the camp was full, leaving them without shelter. They were later directed to find accommodations near Salah al-Din Street, despite the inherent dangers of this area. Hassan recounts the emotional toll this displacement has taken on her family, particularly on Abdallah, who exhibits signs of heightened tension, crying alongside his sisters under the oppressive heat and uncertainty of their situation.

Since the onset of conflict in October 2023, the situation for Palestinians in Gaza has deteriorated as evacuation orders prompt relocations to areas deemed as “safe zones.” However, these designated safe areas, including al-Mawasi, have not been spared from the violence. The continuous assaults force families like Hassan’s to seek refuge amidst uncertainty and fear.

Abdallah’s behavior has changed drastically in these challenging circumstances. The relentless evacuation orders and surrounding chaos have led him to develop a habit of pulling his hair, prompting his family to keep it short to prevent further damage. Hassan has had to resort to medication to help him cope with the overwhelming conditions, acknowledging the toll that the current situation has taken on their ability to access the resources he requires.

As of the latest reports from Gaza’s Health Ministry, the ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties and injuries, underscoring the urgent need for humanitarian support and intervention. Amid suffering, the resilience of families remains a testament to their strength and unity.

In light of the tragic circumstances for families with special needs like Hassan’s, international focus on humanitarian aid and support for those affected by the conflict becomes increasingly vital. The global community is called to recognize the complexities of such situations, ensuring that assistance reaches the most vulnerable members of society, especially children in need of special care.

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