The 2025 World Press Photo of the Year Award was recently awarded to a powerful image captured by Samar Abu Elouf for The New York Times. The haunting portrait features nine-year-old Palestinian boy Mahmoud Ajjour, who tragically lost both arms during an Israeli attack on Gaza City.
The photograph showcases Mahmoud, who was evacuated to Doha after an explosion severed one arm and mutilated the other. As a fellow Gaza native, Elouf was deeply moved by Mahmoud’s story, especially when his mother shared how his first concern upon realizing his arms were amputated was how he would be able to hug her.
Elouf, who was evacuated herself in December 2023, now focuses on documenting the stories of badly wounded Palestinians based in Doha. Her winning image not only highlights Mahmoud’s personal struggle but also sheds light on the broader impact of the ongoing conflict in the region.
Joumana El Zein Khoury, World Press Photo Executive Director, praised the photo for its strong composition, attention to light, and thought-provoking subject matter. The jury commended the image for raising important questions about Mahmoud’s future and the resilience he has shown in adapting to his new reality.
Despite his challenges, Mahmoud is determined to live a normal life and dreams of getting prosthetics to help him navigate daily tasks. The photo serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of individuals impacted by conflict and war.
In addition to Mahmoud’s photo, the jury also recognized two runner-up images. “Droughts in the Amazon” by Musuk Nolte and “Night Crossing” by John Moore captured compelling moments that resonated with the judges.
With over 59,000 photographs submitted by thousands of photojournalists worldwide, the selection process was rigorous. Photographers from Agence France-Presse received multiple regional awards, showcasing the diverse talent within the industry.
From documenting Kenya’s youth uprising to capturing striking images of surfers and stranded airplanes, the winning photos reflect a wide range of stories and perspectives from around the globe. Each image tells a unique story and offers viewers a glimpse into the complexities of our world.
As we reflect on the power of visual storytelling, it is clear that images have the ability to evoke emotions, spark conversations, and inspire change. The World Press Photo Awards serve as a platform for photographers to showcase their work and shed light on important issues facing our society.
Through powerful images like Mahmoud’s portrait, we are reminded of the resilience and strength of individuals facing adversity. These photos serve as a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of bearing witness to the human experience.
