UNICEF raises alarm over children’s plight in Gaza after visiting ICU
‘The worst thing I’ve seen in my 20 years with UNICEF,’ says spokesperson after witnessing the dire conditions of children in a Gaza ICU
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has reached a critical point, with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) stressing the severe impact on children due to the ongoing conflict with Israel.
As per recent reports, children are facing unimaginable hardships, becoming the primary victims of the escalating violence.
In a sobering account, UNICEF spokesperson James Elder described the situation as “the worst thing I’ve seen in my 20 years with UNICEF.”
During his visit to an intensive care unit in a Gaza hospital, Elder observed children in dire conditions, with the constant flux of patients as some did not survive the previous day.
According to a report from UNICEF France dated April 8, the conflict has resulted in a staggering number of casualties. In Israel, over 1,200 deaths have occurred, including 37 children, with more than 7,500 injured. In the Gaza Strip, the death toll stands at 33,091, including 13,800 children and at least 8,850 women, highlighting the disproportionate impact on vulnerable groups.
The Hamas-run Health Ministry in Gaza reported on Tuesday that the conflict with Israel has resulted in the deaths of at least 33,360 people in the territory over the past six months. This figure includes at least 153 individuals who lost their lives in the last 24 hours. Additionally, the war has led to 75,993 injuries in the Gaza Strip.
The dire situation in Gaza is further exacerbated by the destruction of homes and critical infrastructure, rendering it “the most dangerous place in the world for a child,” as Catherine Russell, UNICEF’s executive director, had stated in November 2023. The U.N. estimates that 2.2 million people in Gaza need humanitarian aid, with 1 million children directly affected by the war.
Elder also noted the alarming levels of food insecurity in Gaza, where 95% of the population faces acute food shortages. This crisis is compounded by the fact that two-thirds of hospitals are no longer operational. Elder described the current situation as “a famine made by man,” stressing the urgency for international intervention.
Amid these devastating conditions, UNICEF continues its efforts to provide aid and relief. Despite the challenges in delivering humanitarian aid, the agency has managed to supply essential items, including water, medical supplies, and hygiene kits. However, Elder emphasizes that this assistance is not enough to meet the overwhelming needs in Gaza.
The situation calls for immediate and concerted global action. UNICEF is urging for a cease-fire during Ramadan Bayram, along with the unconditional release of all hostages, and unrestricted humanitarian access to provide medical and humanitarian aid to the affected populations.
Source: Newsroom
