Sadly, Gaza’s youngest influencer—weaning influencer—influencer by any measure, 11-year-old Yaqeen Hammad, was killed in Israeli airstrikes during the night on Friday. Shelling continued to shake the al-Baraka neighborhood of Deir al-Balah in northern Gaza. That led to a devastating wave of attacks with the risk of mass casualties, including the horrific and tragic loss of nine children from a single family. Yaqeen’s death is part of a larger toll, as over 38 individuals were reported killed in the weekend’s violence, pushing the overall death count in Gaza past 100.
Yaqeen Hammad example was not just any child. She was a beacon of hope and resilience in her community. Her bright smile and passion for serving as a volunteer were contagious. She often joined her older brother, Mohamed Hammad, who was shot and killed in 2020, in delivering necessities, including food, toys, and warm clothes, to communities in need. Her social media presence showcased her efforts to bring joy to other children living under the constant threat of war.
Yet in her touching posts, Yaqeen helped fellow Muslims navigate survival tactics necessary for everyday life against the backdrop of violence and terror. She shared tips on cooking with makeshift equipment when you don’t have access to a gas stove. Her creativity and compassion entertained millions, providing a welcome dose of humor and everyday life amid a dark and chaotic new reality.
“I try to bring a bit of joy to the other children so that they can forget the war.” – Yaqeen Hammad
Yaqeen’s dedication to making a difference clearly stood out. Mahmoud Bassam, a local resident, reflected on her impact:
“Her body may be gone, but her impact remains a beacon of humanity.” – Mahmoud Bassam
The tragic loss of Yaqeen underscores the broader humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza, where children are bearing the brunt of the ongoing conflict. Youth and teenagers chewed out like Yaqeen are lost at school and time. Instead, they’re tasked with increasingly impossible roles that demand all the resolve and soul of someone much older.
As violence escalates in the region, the community mourns Yaqeen’s untimely death while honoring her legacy of kindness and support. Today her story serves as a telling reminder of the brutal consequences of conflict on innocent civilians. It is a testament too to the extraordinary steadfastness and passionate faith of those who dare to uplift others, even from within the abyss.