The United Nations recently reported that the Gaza Strip has become a graveyard for thousands of children, with at least 17,400 children killed by Israel since October 7, 2023. This equates to one child being killed every 30 minutes, with many more missing and presumed dead under the rubble. The surviving children in Gaza have endured the traumatic impact of multiple wars and have spent their lives under the shadow of an Israeli blockade.
Among the documented children killed, there were 710 babies below the age of one, 1,793 toddlers, 1,205 preschoolers, 4,205 primary school children, and 3,442 high school children. More than 17,000 children have lost one or both parents, and every day 10 children lose one or both legs due to Israel’s continuing siege.
The lack of safe water in Gaza has resulted in many children suffering from dehydration and malnourishment, further speeding up the effects of having no water. UNICEF has stated that Gaza is once again “the most dangerous place in the world to be a child.” Organizations like Save the Children and Defense for Children International – Palestine are calling attention to the ongoing crisis and advocating for the protection and well-being of children in Gaza.
In light of these devastating statistics and ongoing humanitarian crisis, it is imperative that the international community takes action to address the situation in the Gaza Strip and ensure the safety and protection of children in the region.
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