War through the eyes of a child

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The Global Story

Gaza has an incredibly young population, with pre-war estimates suggesting around half of those living in the territory are under 18, according to health ministry figures. When the conflict began in October 2023, Israeli authorities told civilians to move to a 'humanitarian zone' to ensure their safety. But, BBC analysis shows that this area was targeted almost 100 times in an eight-month period last year - the Israel Defence Forces say Hamas fighters were operating there. Now, a new BBC documentary filmed in the zone shows what civilian life in the midst of war is really like, as three children fight to survive.

Jonny Dymond is joined by Jamie Roberts, a co-director of the film. He introduces us to Zakaria, an 11-year-old living alone at one of Gaza's few functioning hospitals, al-Aqsa.

Listeners in the UK can see the full documentary, Gaza: How to Survive a Warzone, on BBC iPlayer.

The Global Story brings you trusted insights from BBC journalists worldwide. We want your ideas, stories and experiences to help us understand and tell #TheGlobalStory. Email us at theglobalstory@bbc.com You can also message us or leave a voice note via WhatsApp on +44 330 123 9480.

Producers: Laurie Kalus, Eleanor Sly and Richard Moran

Sound engineers: Ben Andrews and Dafydd Evans

Assistant editors: Alice Aylett Roberts and Sergi Forcada Freixas

Senior news editor: China Collins

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