Trauma and defiance: Life and death of 17-year-old killed fighting Israel
Al Jazeera
February 14, 2026
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Wael Mesheh, a 17-year-old Palestinian from the West Bank, was killed by an Israeli drone while fighting in Balata refugee camp. His story reflects the harsh realities faced by many young Palestinians living in occupied territories, where trauma and violence shape their lives. Wael, once an aspiring computer programmer, turned to armed resistance after witnessing the deaths of five relatives and friends at the hands of Israeli forces during frequent raids on his camp. His journey from a hopeful student to a "martyr" is emblematic of the cyclical violence and despair that plagues Palestinian youth in refugee camps.
Wael’s father, Belal, described how their family’s suffering instilled a desire in Wael to fight for Palestinian freedom. Before his death, Wael had been imprisoned multiple times,遭受 torture and solitary confinement by Israeli authorities. His time in prison hardened his resolve, leading him to join the Qassam Brigades, Hamas’ armed wing. Wael was killed in August 2024 while fighting near his home in Balata, a camp notorious for its dire conditions—poverty, overcrowding, and constant Israeli military operations.
The Balata refugee camp, established in 1948 after the Nakba, has become a symbol of Palestinian displacement. Its residents face insurmountable challenges: poverty, lack of opportunities, and relentless military violence. These conditions breed a sense of resignation and defiance among young people, many of whom see resistance as their only出路. Psychologists note that children in these camps experience "incessant traumatization," leaving them with little hope for a normal childhood or future.
Wael’s story highlights the broader struggle
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/14/2026