Palestinian photographer Samar Abu Elouf has been awarded the 2025 World Press Photo of the Year for her poignant image of nine-year-old Mahmoud Ajjour, who lost both arms in an Israeli attack on Gaza in March 2024. The photograph, taken for The New York Times, captures Mahmoud in Doha, Qatar, where he is undergoing rehabilitation and learning to adapt to his new circumstances. The image powerfully conveys the personal suffering and resilience of Mahmoud, while also highlighting the broader human impact of the conflict in Gaza. The World Press Photo jury praised the photograph for its intimate portrayal of individual suffering and its broader commentary on the consequences of global conflicts. Joumana El Zein Khoury, the organization’s executive director, described the image as “quiet” yet deeply impactful. The 2025 World Press Photo Contest received over 59,000 submissions from photographers in 141 countries, showcasing powerful stories of struggle, defiance, warmth, and courage. The winning images, including Abu Elouf’s photograph, will be part of a traveling exhibition visiting more than 60 locations worldwide.
