Palestinian Boy's Portrait Wins 2025 World Press Photo Award

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A poignant portrait of a nine-year-old Palestinian boy, Mahmoud Ajjour, who lost both arms during an Israeli attack on Gaza City, has been awarded the 2025 World Press Photo of the Year Award. Captured by Samar Abu Elouf for The New York Times, the photograph illustrates the boy's resilience as he adapts to life after his injuries, including learning to use his feet for daily tasks, according to the jury's report.

Elouf, herself evacuated from Gaza in December 2023, highlighted Mahmoud's emotional struggle upon realizing his amputation while also emphasizing the broader implications of war. "This is a quiet photo that speaks loudly," said Joumana El Zein Khoury, Executive Director of World Press Photo, underscoring the lasting impact of conflict on children.

The jury reviewed over 59,000 photographs, selecting 42 prize winners from various categories. Among runner-up features were "Droughts in the Amazon" by Musuk Nolte and "Night Crossing" by John Moore, showcasing significant global issues. Mahmoud hopes for prosthetics, aiming to experience childhood like others, as stated by World Press Photo organizers.

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