At least 74 children in Gaza were killed by Israeli airstrikes in the first seven days of 2025 as relentless violence continues to claim innocent lives, according to UNICEF.
The victims were reported in several mass casualty incidents, including nighttime attacks in Gaza City, Khan Younis, and Al Mawasi—a southern area designated as a “safe zone.” The most recent strike in Al Mawasi claimed the lives of five children.
“For the children of Gaza, the new year has brought nothing but more death, suffering, and deprivation,” said UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell.
“A ceasefire is long overdue. Far too many children have been killed or have lost loved ones in this tragic beginning to the year.”
Children are also facing life-threatening conditions from exposure to freezing temperatures. More than a million displaced children are living in makeshift shelters or tents, with basic necessities in critically short supply.
Since December 26, at least eight infants and newborns have died from hypothermia, a stark reminder of the dangers young children face when they cannot regulate their body temperature.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza is rapidly deteriorating. Aid deliveries remain woefully inadequate, leaving families without food, clean water, or healthcare.
Civil order is collapsing, with reports of looted humanitarian goods, and the destruction of infrastructure has left Gaza’s hospitals overwhelmed.
“Children in Gaza are at extreme risk,” Russell warned. “Inadequate shelter, malnutrition, lack of healthcare, and now winter conditions create a perfect storm of threats to their survival. Newborns and children with pre-existing medical conditions are particularly vulnerable.”
UNICEF has also reiterated its demand for an immediate ceasefire, the release of all hostages—particularly the two remaining children—and the restoration of security to allow for safe aid delivery.
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