Kathmandu— In the Maghazi refugee camp in central Gaza, 10-year-old Maysara Zaqout’s days begin before sunrise with a crucial task: securing water for her family. This daily struggle is mirrored by thousands of children across Gaza who are shouldering responsibilities far beyond their years due to devastating shortages of clean water and food brought on by Israel's ongoing war, which has killed over 73,400 Palestinians and injured many more since October 2023. These young Gazans spend hours each day collecting resources, sacrificing education, play, and even their physical health in the process.

Daily Struggles Impact Physical Health

The routine of fetching water takes a significant physical toll on Gaza’s children. Yamen Saleh, 12, and his six-year-old brother Aman routinely spend their days waiting for water trucks and seeking out community kitchens, straining their bodies with heavy containers. “Every time I carry water to the tent, I feel tired and in pain, especially in my shoulders and back,” Yamen explained. Their mother, Fidaa Saleh, is heartbroken watching her sons struggle under the weight of these responsibilities, noting that it drains their energy and impacts their sleep and appetite.

Dr. Sumaya Salah, a physician working in central Gaza’s medical clinics, reports a surge in cases of muscle problems, hernias, and scoliosis among children performing these exhausting tasks. She cited the case of nine-year-old Raghad, diagnosed with scoliosis after years of carrying water long distances, highlighting the potential for serious, permanent complications if she doesn't receive treatment.

Psychological Toll and Lost Childhoods

The constant struggle for basic necessities is also taking a psychological toll on Gaza’s children. Huda Zaqout, Maysara’s mother, recounts how her daughter breaks down in tears when returning home empty-handed after failing to secure food or water. “I was shocked when my daughter entered the tent, sobbing and holding an empty bowl,” she said.

Maysara herself expressed frustration with the unfairness of the situation, describing a recent trip to a community kitchen where supplies ran out before her family’s turn. Fidaa Saleh has observed significant changes in her children's personalities, noting they have become more stubborn and less expressive as they grapple with adult responsibilities.

Aid Restrictions Compound Crisis

Compounding the shortages are difficulties facing international aid organizations attempting to provide assistance. While Palestinians rely heavily on groups like World Kitchen and UNICEF for water and food, both have been forced to reduce services this year due to restrictions imposed by Israel on access to Gaza and a lack of funding. UNICEF estimates that 82 percent of families in Gaza are water insecure, with up to 70 percent unable to access the minimum emergency standard of six litres per person daily.

The municipality of Maghazi camp faces severe limitations as well, according to its mayor Mohammed Mosleh, due to a lack of spare parts and oil for generators and pumps caused by the Israeli blockade. He also pointed out that Israel’s expansion of areas under its control restricts access to vital water wells, despite stipulations in last year's ceasefire agreement.

Hope Remains Through Education and Community

Despite the dire circumstances, families in Gaza are striving to maintain hope for a better future through education and community initiatives. Fidaa Saleh prioritized bringing her children’s school certificates when evacuating their home, emphasizing the importance of learning. The Maghazi camp has established educational tents staffed by volunteer teachers, offering basic subjects alongside cultural and recreational activities.

Mohammed Zaqout, Maysara’s father and head of the displacement camp committee, shared a line from Palestinian poet Mahmoud Darwish – “We love life if we can find a way to it” – as the motto of their camp. He dreams of a future where Gaza's children can play, learn, and grow up with dignity.

Despite ongoing challenges, residents of Maghazi camp continue to seek ways to provide education and support for children, clinging to hope for a more stable and secure future.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.