DaysofPal- Children in the Gaza Strip remain at the center of a worsening humanitarian crisis, with access to basic necessities still critically limited, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has warned. Despite a reduction in active conflict, the devastating impact of Israel’s prolonged military assault on the besieged territory continues to take a severe toll on children’s physical and mental well-being.
UNICEF spokesperson Tess Ingram shared her findings on Tuesday after a two-week visit to Gaza, where she witnessed the harsh conditions children are enduring. Many are living amid the ruins of their homes, exposed to extreme weather, and deprived of essential resources.
“While the bombs and bullets may have stopped, the crisis is far from over,” Ingram said. “Children in Gaza are still suffering, with their basic needs, food, water, shelter, healthcare, and clothing, largely unmet.”
The humanitarian crisis is not only physical but also psychological. A study conducted by a Gaza-based NGO in partnership with the London-based War Child Alliance revealed the profound psychological distress experienced by Gaza’s children due to Israel’s 14-month-long war. Published in December 2024, the study highlighted alarming statistics about the mental health crisis plaguing Gaza’s youth.
According to the study, 96% of children surveyed believed their death was imminent, while 49% expressed a wish to die. The psychological impact extends further, with 92% of minors unable to accept their reality, 79% suffering from recurring nightmares, and 73% displaying symptoms of aggression.
The survey, conducted in June 2024, gathered data from parents or caregivers of 504 children, focusing on families where at least one child was disabled, injured, or unaccompanied. These findings underscore the profound emotional and psychological trauma that continues to afflict Gaza’s youth.
Ingram emphasized that the overwhelming scale of humanitarian needs remains the greatest challenge for relief organizations like UNICEF.
Despite repeated warnings from UNICEF and other humanitarian agencies since December 2024, little has improved. Essential aid remains insufficient, leaving thousands of children vulnerable to malnutrition, disease, and ongoing psychological distress.
Shortlink for this post: https://daysofpalestine.ps/?p=60716
