Palestinians converge for a free meal in Rafah, Gaza. Photo
credit: Fatima Shbair/AP
It can be extremely frightening, unbelievable, and emotionally upsetting to wake up on a Tuesday morning in a world where war is a threat, particularly when the news of violence comes as a surprise.
For some, it starts with a startling message, often
accompanied by an urgent tone or a sobbing emoji, from a loved one, such as a
friend or family member, declaring that war has broken out.
Disbelief is frequently the first response: "What and
how could this be? This is not possible. However, it was and still is true.
Social media recordings of explosions, missile strikes, or military action, such
as a missile striking an airport only kilometers from one's hometown, often
provide the initial confirmation.
The experience is bizarre for those watching from overseas;
they feel physically safe but emotionally powerless, wonder if they should be
there to assist, and worry about the safety of everyone they care about. People
may suffer from anxiety, hyperventilation, or nightmares as a result of the
psychological toll, particularly if they have personal connections to conflict
areas.
Feelings of being ignored or unheard are exacerbated by a
sense of loneliness brought on by the world's seeming indifference or
underreporting of the conflict. Many, including children, mothers, fathers, and
the elderly, continue to suffer throughout war periods, as many sleep in tents
without any heating system.
As Ukraine enters its fourth winter under full-scale
invasion, millions of civilians are enduring severe hardships due to relentless
attacks, widespread power outages, and freezing temperatures, which are
straining an already exhausted population.
Ongoing strikes on energy infrastructure have left entire
communities uncertain about access to heat, electricity, and clean water, while
fresh displacement continues along active frontlines.
The situation is particularly dire for vulnerable groups,
including low-income residents in poorly constructed high-rise buildings;
elderly and mobility-limited individuals living near the frontline, estimated
at least half a million people within 20 kilometers of the front; and
internally displaced people (IDPs) who remain in precarious conditions after
years of displacement.
Access to medical care has become a critical concern, with
over 70% of surveyed individuals identifying it as their most urgent need, and
more than 60% of households lacking sufficient heating this winter. One in five
families suffers from health issues linked to cold indoor temperatures, and
over half of respondents cannot afford essential medicines, exacerbating a
growing health crisis.
The psychological toll is equally severe, with over
one-third of the population reporting mental health issues, and nearly 90% of
families in frontline areas grappling with anxiety, stress, or sadness. Children
are especially vulnerable, with 1.5 million at risk of developing
post-traumatic stress syndrome and other mental health challenges.
Humanitarian agencies warn that this winter could be one of
the most difficult yet, as intensified bombardment, worsening access
constraints, and growing funding gaps threaten to leave hundreds of thousands
without adequate support.
Despite efforts by organizations like CARE and the
International Rescue Committee to deliver winterization aid such as thermal
underwear, gas heaters, warm blankets, and medical supplies, the scale of need
far exceeds available resources.
The combination of damaged infrastructure, limited access to
utilities, and the psychological burden of nearly four years of war continues
to place immense pressure on civilians, many of whom are living in damaged
homes without protection from the harsh winter conditions.
Ultimately, awakening to a world in danger of war is a very
personal experience influenced by location, proximity to conflict areas, and
emotional sensitivity, but it always entails a tension between the dreadful
truth of global instability and the routine rhythm of daily life.
Beauty and wealth may contribute to someone’s pride;
however, one’s legacy and integrity are more important to me than anything.
Everybody has a role to play; therefore, what legacy did you leave behind to be
remembered when you passed away? Wars, tribal conflicts, and oppression can’t
solve the problems. Love conquers all.