Amid ongoing Israeli bombardment, Gaza has tragically become a “graveyard” for children. UN humanitarian agencies report that thousands of children have lost their lives, and more than a million people are facing critical shortages of essential supplies, leaving a lifetime of trauma in their wake.
BEYOND DEVASTATING
UN relief chief, Martin Griffiths, who recently visited Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territory, spoke with families in Gaza from Jerusalem. He described the situation as “beyond devastating,” particularly when hearing stories from young children who fear for their lives.
In a separate meeting, Mr. Griffiths met with families of the over 230 hostages held in Gaza since October 7, with approximately 30 of them being children kidnapped by Hamas terrorists. The uncertainty these families endure, not knowing the fate of their loved ones, is a heart-wrenching ordeal.
KILLED AND MISSING
According to the Hamas-run Ministry of Health, over 3,450 children have lost their lives in Gaza, and an additional 1,000 children are reported as missing, possibly trapped or awaiting rescue under the rubble. This situation is almost unbearable, as there are limited possibilities for their safe retrieval.
The crisis goes beyond the immediate threat of bombs and mortars. Dehydration is becoming a growing concern among infants due to a severe shortage of clean water production in Gaza, with desalination plants either damaged or lacking fuel.
When the conflict eventually subsides, the emotional and psychological trauma faced by survivors, especially children, will leave a lasting impact for decades to come. It’s a heartbreaking reality, with reports of children engaging in self-harm due to the daily stress and fear.
UNICEF’s James Elder emphasized the need for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire and the opening of all access points to provide sustained humanitarian aid, which would offer a respite to the 1.1 million children enduring this nightmare.
While some progress has been made in allowing humanitarian supplies to enter Gaza, it remains insufficient to address the dire humanitarian situation and potential civil unrest. Restoring fuel supplies for essential services and ensuring the protection of healthcare facilities are urgent priorities.
The international community is urged to take action and protect the lives of innocent children in Gaza, as hospitals are essential and protected facilities under international humanitarian law. Any use of hospitals for military purposes or as shields is a grave violation of these laws, and all sides must adhere to international rules on the conduct of hostilities.
The situation in Gaza is a critical humanitarian crisis that requires immediate attention and action from the global community.
