# Gaza children's marathon amid conflict

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/gaza-childrens-marathon-amid-conflict
> Updated: 2026-08-04T06:36:06.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2.

On 1 August 2026 a marathon for children was held in Khan Younis, Gaza Strip. Organized by International Networking for Humanitarian (INH) Indonesia, the event was presented as an awareness drive for the thousands of orphaned children affected by the ongoing Israel‑Hamas war, with UNICEF estimating over 58,000 orphans and a million children needing protection. Participants included dozens of young runners and a wheelchair‑bound 13‑year‑old, Saif Hijazi, whose father was killed in an earlier Israeli attack.

Later coverage on 4 August highlighted the same marathon as a media‑friendly showcase, describing it as a propaganda effort that contrasts with accusations of genocide in Gaza. Israeli officials reiterated that the war targets Hamas, not civilians, while commentators noted the event’s role in shaping public narratives about the conflict.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-04: Gaza children's marathon staged amid Israel-Hamas war

A children’s marathon was held in Gaza on 1 August amid the Israel‑Hamas war, drawing media attention and sparking debate over its use as a propaganda tool.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/gaza-childrens-marathon-staged-amid-israel-hamas-war

### 2026-08-01: Humanitarian Marathon in Khan Younis Highlights Gaza Orphaned Children

A marathon in Khan Younis, organized by INH Indonesia, highlighted Gaza's orphaned children, with UNICEF noting over 58,000 orphans and a paralysed 13‑year‑old Saif Hijazi watching from a wheelchair.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/humanitarian-marathon-in-khan-younis-highlights-gaza-orphaned-children

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Cite as: Gaza children's marathon amid conflict. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/gaza-childrens-marathon-amid-conflict