Gaza Mourns the Loss of Its Youngest Activist: 11-Year-Old Yaqeen Hammad Killed in Israeli Airstrike
The death of Yaqeen Hammad, a child humanitarian and media campaigner, highlights the ongoing tragedy and resilience in Gaza amid war and siege.
Yaqeen Hammad, an 11-year-old girl recognised as Gaza’s youngest media activist and humanitarian volunteer, was killed in an Israeli airstrike that struck her family home in the central Gaza Strip on May 23, 2025. The attack, which targeted the al-Baraka neighbourhood in Deir al-Balah, ended the life of a child who had become a symbol of hope and resilience for many living under siege.
Yaqeen was known for her tireless humanitarian work, often joining her older brother, Mohamed Hammad, to deliver aid to displaced families. She distributed food, clothes, and toys, bringing moments of relief to those suffering from the ongoing conflict that has gripped Gaza since October 2023. Closely associated with the Ouena Collective, a local nonprofit, Yaqeen dedicated herself to supporting mutual aid projects and helping orphans and families in need.
Her impact extended far beyond her immediate community. Through her Instagram account, Yaqeen documented her charitable activities and the daily struggles of life under blockade, reaching tens of thousands of followers. Her posts showcased not only the hardships faced by Gaza’s children but also their unwavering faith and determination. In one video, she wrote,
“We still hold firmly to the [Holy] Qur’an and to education despite the famine, the siege, and the ongoing genocide — with empty stomachs and faithful hearts.”
Tributes have poured in from activists, journalists, and social media users inspired by her courage and compassion. Her brother, Mahmoud, expressed his grief, saying,
“Yaqeen, the world champion. My sister, my soul, was martyred.”
The war in Gaza has claimed more than 61,700 lives, with children making up a significant portion of the casualties. According to Gaza’s health authorities, at least 19,000 children have been killed since the conflict escalated in October 2023.
Yaqeen Hammad’s legacy lives on through her digital presence and the lives she touched, serving as a poignant reminder of the enduring spirit of Gaza’s children in the face of unimaginable adversity.
Source: PressTV