Moatsem al-Sharafy

Their life

Moatsem al-Sharafy was a 13-year-old Palestinian boy from Bani Suheila in eastern Khan Younis, Gaza. Like many children in war-torn Gaza, he was forced into adult responsibilities at a young age due to the destruction, displacement, and deprivation caused by prolonged conflict. On the day of his death, Moatsem left home hungry to collect firewood for his family, never returning alive.

Moatsem al-Sharafy lived with his family in Bani Suheila, an eastern town near Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip. During the months following the ceasefire, daily life remained extremely dangerous, particularly in eastern areas frequently exposed to Israeli military fire.

According to his mother, Safaa al-Sharafy, Moatsem went out early in the day to gather firewood so she could prepare food for the family. He reportedly told her he would return quickly. Instead, he was shot and killed by Israeli troops. Video footage later circulated online showing his father grieving over his body, highlighting the profound personal loss suffered by his family.

Moatsem’s death became one of the most painful symbols of civilian suffering, especially of children, on one of the deadliest days in Gaza since the ceasefire took effect.

How they died

Moatsem al-Sharafy was killed amid ongoing Israeli military operations in Gaza while attempting to help his family survive daily hardships following months of war

Moatsem al-Sharafy was killed by Israeli gunfire in Bani Suheila, east of Khan Younis. According to hospital officials at Nasser Hospital, his body was received after he was shot by Israeli forces. His family stated that he posed no threat and was engaged in a civilian activity—collecting firewood—at the time he was killed.

A plea from the family

Moatsem’s mother, Safaa al-Sharafy, told The Associated Press: “He went out in the morning, hungry. He told me he’d go quickly and come back.” Her statement reflects a direct plea highlighting the suffering of Palestinian children and families forced into danger simply to meet basic needs amid the ongoing conflict.

Why we remember them

This record exists so that Moatsem al-Sharafy, and all who are named in this archive, are never reduced to a number.

References & sources