UNICEF: A child in Gaza succumbs to violence every hour
The commissioner-general of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees has reported a grave situation in the Gaza Strip, stating that the current Israeli military actions are resulting in the death of one Palestinian child every hour.
Philippe Lazzarini, referencing UNICEF statistics, has highlighted the tragic toll of the ongoing conflict, stating on social media that 14,500 children have been reported killed in Gaza. Middle East Monitor reported Lazzarini’s poignant reminder that “killing children cannot be justified,” emphasizing the urgency of the situation with the devastating fact that one child loses their life every hour. These figures represent not just numbers, but young lives prematurely ended amidst the violence.
As reported by Middle East Monitor, Lazzarini highlighted the severe impact on the survivors, stating that they bear both physical and emotional scars. He emphasized, “Deprived of education, boys and girls in Gaza search through the debris. Time is running out for these children. They are losing their lives, their futures, and most importantly, their hope.”
A recent needs assessment carried out by a Gaza-based non-governmental organization with support from the War Child Alliance has revealed concerning statistics regarding the mental health of Palestinian children. The survey found that 92 percent of the children are unable to accept their current reality, while 79 percent experience frequent nightmares. Additionally, 73 percent of the respondents exhibit symptoms of aggression.
According to a report released by War Child UK, Gaza has emerged as one of the most harrowing environments globally for children. Helen Pattinson, the organization’s chief executive, highlighted the dire situation, noting that the obliteration of hospitals, schools, and residences has been compounded by profound psychological traumas, inflicting unseen yet deeply impactful scars on children who are innocent victims of the ongoing conflict.
A recent study conducted a survey involving parents and caregivers of 504 children from families where at least one child experiences a disability, has suffered an injury, or receives insufficient supervision.
A recent report conducted by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights has revealed a higher casualty count of children in Gaza than previously estimated by UNICEF. The assessment indicates that children accounted for 44 percent of the 45,300 Palestinians reportedly killed by Israeli actions in the region.
