In brief
Unicef has reported that at least 322 children have lost their lives since Israel's renewed offensive in Gaza began two weeks ago. Describing the humanitarian crisis in the region, the agency emphasizes the urgent need for aid and protection for vulnerable children.
The United Nations children's agency, Unicef, announced that since Israel's renewed military operations in Gaza two weeks ago, at least 322 children have been tragically killed. The report also noted that around 609 other children sustained injuries during this period. Unicef Executive Director Catherine Russell expressed concern, stating, “The ceasefire in Gaza provided a desperately needed lifeline for Gaza's children and hope for a path to recovery. But children have again been plunged into a cycle of deadly violence and deprivation.”The renewed offensive, which commenced on March 18, was initiated by Israel in response to Hamas’s refusal to accept a U.S. proposal aimed at extending the ceasefire and securing the release of the 59 hostages still in captivity in Gaza. Conversely, Hamas accused Israel of breaching their previously established agreement, facilitating the escalation of violence.According to Unicef, the humanitarian situation has sharply deteriorated, with "relentless and indiscriminate bombardments" recurring in Gaza, reportedly resulting in the death or injury of approximately 100 children daily within the first 10 days of renewed conflict. The majority of the deceased children were reported to be displaced individuals taking refuge in makeshift tents or damaged housing. It is worth noting that Unicef relies on figures provided by Gaza's health ministry, controlled by Hamas, which Israel disputes. However, these figures are widely regarded by the UN and various international organizations as credible.The agency’s announcement coincides with Israel's refusal to permit aid into the Gaza Strip since March 2, marking the longest period of aid blockage in the ongoing conflict. Unicef forewarned that without essential supplies, the occurrences of malnutrition, diseases, and other preventable health conditions among children are likely to escalate, leading to a rise in preventable fatalities.The ongoing conflict, which erupted over 18 months ago, has been catastrophic, with Unicef reporting that approximately 15,000 children have died and over 34,000 have been injured since its onset. Additionally, nearly one million children have faced repeated displacement.The situation has prompted the UN to announce a reduction of its operations in Gaza following the death of eight Palestinian medics, six Civil Defence responders, and a UN employee due to Israeli artillery fire on March 24.Israel’s military campaign against Hamas was initiated in reaction to a deadly cross-border attack that occurred on October 7, 2023, leading to the deaths of around 1,200 individuals and the kidnapping of 251 hostages. The ongoing violence has resulted in more than 50,399 fatalities in Gaza, according to the health ministry operated by Hamas.
