"Lentil 'Bomb' Explodes in Gaza, Uncovering Deadly Ordnance Menace"

They Found a "Bucket of Lentils." Then It Blew Up: The Menace of Gaza's Unexploded Ordnance GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip - In a devastating reminder of the ongoing threat posed by unexploded ordnance, an 8-year-old boy in Gaza recently discovered what he thought was a "bucket of lentils" that turned out to be a deadly explosive device. The incident highlights the perilous situation faced by residents in the Gaza Strip, where the bombs may have stopped falling, but the danger they pose remains. According to eyewitnesses, the boy, Joud Ahmad Al-Angar, was playing with his 12-year-old cousin Zain Nour when they stumbled upon the suspicious object. Thinking it could be useful for their family, they brought it home, unaware of the danger it posed. However, the device detonated, injuring both boys, who are now recuperating from their injuries. This incident is not an isolated case. According to the United Nations, Gaza is home to an estimated 1.5 million unexploded ordnance, including cluster bombs, artillery shells, and other explosive devices. These remnants of past conflicts pose a significant threat to the civilian population, particularly children who often mistake them for toys or other harmless objects. The Gaza Strip has been plagued by conflict for decades, with multiple wars and skirmishes leaving behind a trail of unexploded ordnance. While the current ceasefire has brought a temporary reprieve, the danger posed by these devices remains a pressing concern. "The other boys told me they were buckets of lentils," Joud Ahmad Al-Angar recalled, highlighting the lack of awareness and education about the risks posed by unexploded ordnance. Experts warn that the situation is dire, with many residents unaware of the dangers they face. "The unexploded ordnance in Gaza is a ticking time bomb, waiting to claim its next victim," said a spokesperson for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). "We urge the international community to provide support and assistance to help clear these devices and ensure the safety of the civilian population." The incident has sparked a renewed call for action to address the issue of unexploded ordnance in Gaza. Humanitarian organizations and government agencies are working together to provide training and resources to residents, as well as to clear the devices from affected areas. However, much work remains to be done to mitigate the threat posed by these deadly remnants of conflict. As the people of Gaza continue to live with the fear of unexploded ordnance, the international community must take action to address this pressing issue. The discovery of a "bucket of lentils" that turned out to be a deadly explosive device serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by these devices and the need for urgent action to protect the civilian population.