The World Press Photo of the Year for 2025 depicts Mahmoud Ajjour, a young Palestinian boy from Gaza who lost both of his arms in an Israeli strike while fleeing with his family. The haunting portrait by Palestinian photographer Samar Abu Elouf captures Mahmoud’s struggle and resilience. After losing his arms, one severed completely and the other amputated due to injuries, Mahmoud questioned how he would be able to hug his mother. He was evacuated to Qatar for treatment, where his portrait was taken. Mahmoud is one of many children in Gaza who have lost limbs during the ongoing conflict, with over 1,000 children already undergoing amputations. The healthcare system in Gaza has been severely impacted by Israel’s offensive, with many operations being performed without anaesthetic. Efforts to achieve a permanent ceasefire and release hostages have so far been unsuccessful, and aid is being blocked from entering the enclave. Mahmoud is adapting to his new life without arms, learning to use his feet for daily activities and hoping to receive prosthetic limbs in the future. His story highlights the devastating impact of the conflict on innocent children in Gaza and the urgent need for a resolution to the violence.
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