At least 18 children under the age of 15 have been killed by Israeli gunfire in the occupied West Bank this year, according to the United Nations, marking the third consecutive year of double-digit child fatalities in the region. The children lost their lives in various circumstances, including military raids, while playing outside, or even inside their homes. Families mourn their children by holding onto their belongings and memories, as abandoned toys and empty bedrooms serve as painful reminders of their absence.
Israeli authorities state that their operations target militants and prohibit firing at civilians, but the details surrounding these deaths raise serious questions about accountability. Investigations are ongoing, yet families report a lack of information and demand answers. The photo essay documents each case with names, ages, and personal stories, highlighting the profound impact on families and communities throughout the West Bank.