UNICEF Reports Surge in Child Fatalities Amid Renewed Violence in Gaza

UNICEF warns of escalating child casualties as at least 322 children have died since Israel resumed bombing in Gaza two weeks ago. The situation exacerbates an already dire humanitarian crisis, with thousands more children injured and displaced.

The United Nations children's agency, UNICEF, has revealed that at least 322 children have lost their lives since Israel renewed its military operations in Gaza two weeks ago. During this same period, over 609 other children are reported to have suffered injuries. UNICEF’s Executive Director, Catherine Russell, expressed grave concerns for the welfare of children in the region, 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."

Israel resumed its military actions on March 18, citing Hamas's rejection of a new U.S. proposal intended to extend the ceasefire and facilitate the release of 59 hostages. In contrast, Hamas has accused Israel of violating previously agreed terms dating back to January. UNICEF has documented that relentless airstrikes have resulted in the death or injury of 100 children daily over the first ten days of renewed conflict. Many of the deceased were children already displaced, forced to take shelter in makeshift tents or damaged buildings.

The casualty figures reported by UNICEF are sourced from the health ministry administered by Hamas, which Israel consistently contests. However, various international organizations, including the UN, consider these figures credible. Journalists face restrictions that prevent them from verifying these statistics on the ground.

Since the escalation began over 18 months, UNICEF has indicated that approximately 15,000 children have died, with more than 34,000 injured and close to one million displaced. Recently, the humanitarian situation has worsened, exacerbated further by Israel's refusal to allow aid into Gaza since March 2, marking the longest period of aid blockage since the onset of the conflict. UNICEF warned that the lack of essential supplies could lead to significant public health issues, including malnutrition and diseases, resulting in even more preventable child deaths.

Notably, the UN announced a reduction in its operations in Gaza on March 24, following the killing of eight Palestinian medics, six first responders, and a UN staff member by Israeli forces. The ongoing military campaign from Israel aims to dismantle Hamas, designated as a terrorist entity by Israel, the UK, the US, and other nations, following an unprecedented attack on October 7, 2023, which resulted in around 1,200 fatalities and 251 hostages taken. The repercussions of this conflict have now resulted in over 50,399 fatalities across Gaza, according to estimates from the Hamas-run health ministry.