Mahmoud Ajjour lost both arms in an Israeli airstrike. His portrait was taken by Palestinian photographer Samar Abu Elouf for The New York Times.
Asthread of the 2025 World Press Photo of the Year is a poignant image of nine-year-old Mahmoud Ajjour, a Gaza survivor who lost both arms in an Israeli airstrike. Photographer Samar Abu Elouf captured his story for The New York Times. Ajorry has opened up about rebuilding his life and his heartfelt goal to return home, showing both strength and hope despite the challenges he faces.