BBC OS Conversations: Teenagers in Gaza and Israel

The past two weeks have brought suffering to thousands. In recent days, there have been warnings of a humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza amid continual bombardment. In Israel, the discovery of bodies continues in the communities near the border, following the attack by Hamas on 7 October. It’s a reflection of this region that many of those caught up in this conflict are young people. Host James Reynolds hears from teenagers, on both sides. In Gaza, roughly half the population is under 18, and although communications are very difficult, young people have been sending us voice messages when they have enough internet. Sanabel (16) is sheltering with her family. In her messages, she said: “No one cares about us. They think we are terrorists. We are truly suffering.” In Israel, thousands have been preparing militarily for the country’s aim of eliminating Hamas. For the majority, turning 18 means joining the army. Neta (18) is preparing to be a solider for Israel.