GAZA, PALESTINE — OCTOBER 20, 2026: Children in white karate uniforms performed outdoors beside a damaged building as the Palestinian Karate Federation’s southern governorates branch held a graduation ceremony for a program involving 1,000 boys and girls, according to information supplied by MedPress photographer Mohammed M. Skaik.
The photographs show participants demonstrating techniques on bare ground, spectators watching from the sidelines and young karate practitioners holding certificates. A participant using a crutch also performed during the event.
The ceremony takes place against a wider effort to restore sporting activities disrupted by war, displacement and damage to training facilities. In April, federation official Hassan al-Rai described a “1,000 karate players” initiative intended to expand organized training for children and young people by the end of 2026.
Reporting published in August documented training resuming in several parts of the Gaza Strip despite shortages of suitable halls, training mats and equipment. Coaches described the difficulty of rebuilding activities after prolonged interruptions.
The graduation offers a concrete view of that effort: organized demonstrations, recognition of participants’ training and a public gathering around sport, held while the surrounding buildings still bear damage.
Photos: © Mohammed M. Skaik / MedPress
