Young Refugees from Gaza Find Healing Through Art Amidst War Trauma

A group of children from Gaza, who have been evacuated to Bethlehem's SOS Children's Village due to the ongoing war with Israel, are enduring profound mental trauma despite being miles away from the conflict. The war, which has created a devastating impact on their lives, has left these young souls grappling with a range of emotions, from sadness and fear to relief and fleeting happiness. The children, aged two to 14, recently embarked on a lengthy journey from Rafah to Bethlehem, a distance that could typically be covered in an hour but was stretched over three days due to the complexities of movement imposed by the Israeli government on Palestinians. The journey itself, filled with uncertainties and challenges, became a poignant subject for these children as they engaged in an art workshop to depict their experiences. Under the guidance of Dr Mutaz Lubad, an expert in art and psychological therapy, the children found solace in expressing their inner turmoil through art. From cutting out words like "Rafah" and "Bethlehem" to weaving bright yarn to symbolize their journey, each child's creation carried a narrative of their emotional journey - the fear of leaving home, the relief of escaping the war, the anxiety from loud noises, and the dreams of returning to Rafah. Through their art, the children revealed their struggles and fears, often unable to articulate them through words. The knots in the yarn, symbolizing moments of confusion and fear, also portrayed resilience and hope as the children navigated through their traumatic experiences. The art session served as a medium for the children to process their emotions and find a voice for their unspoken fears and hopes. Despite the physical distance from the conflict, the mental scars of war linger on, manifesting in anxiety, nightmares, and insomnia among the children. The staff at the SOS Children's Villages, dedicated to protecting and nurturing these vulnerable souls, continue their tireless efforts to provide a safe and healing environment for the children. As the children come together to break their fast during Ramadan, forming bonds and finding comfort in each other's company, the essence of the SOS Children's Villages - fostering a family-like atmosphere where children can support each other - shines through. Though the trauma of war may linger, the resilience and camaraderie among these children offer a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness of conflict.