What happened
Three years have passed since the Hamas attack on southern Israel, which killed 1,200 people and took 251 others hostage. The attack triggered Israel's war in Gaza, resulting in the deaths of tens of thousands of Palestinians. CBS News spoke with two teenagers, one from Israel and one from Gaza, to understand how their lives have changed since the attack.
Ron Shargian, a 15-year-old Israeli, recalled the day of the attack as a surreal experience. He was 12 when he saw Hamas militants on paragliders flying over the wall that was meant to protect his community. The attackers killed 17 of his neighbors, and Shargian's family had to lock themselves in their home's bomb shelter for 11 hours until security forces arrived to rescue them.
Across the border in Gaza, 14-year-old Kazem Doghmash described the difficulties of finding safe places since the Israeli military assault began. He said that many things have been destroyed, including his school and his family's home. Despite the challenges, Doghmash hopes to become a doctor and has resumed his studies at a new location.
Both teenagers are struggling to come to terms with the conflict and its impact on their lives. Shargian expressed uncertainty about the possibility of peace, while Doghmash longs for a return to a normal life, where he can focus on his education and happiness.
The United Nations Children's Fund reports that over 21,000 Palestinian children have been killed in Gaza since the conflict began, and dozens of Israeli children have also died. Despite the trauma they have experienced, both boys are finding moments to enjoy their childhood and look forward to a better future.
