The Israeli-Palestinian conflict, an ongoing war, has led to a solemn humanitarian crisis
in Gaza, resulting in the suffering of innocent civilians, particularly children. An estimate of
children dying is 5,500 since October 7. According to Gaza’s government media office, amid
widespread airstrikes by Israel’s military, hundreds more are reported missing and may be
trapped under the rubble. Ever since October 7, Gaza has killed one child every 10 minutes
consistently.
in Gaza, resulting in the suffering of innocent civilians, particularly children. An estimate of
children dying is 5,500 since October 7. According to Gaza’s government media office, amid
widespread airstrikes by Israel’s military, hundreds more are reported missing and may be
trapped under the rubble. Ever since October 7, Gaza has killed one child every 10 minutes
consistently.
Israel airstrikes have targeted schools, hospitals, and ambulances, resulting in collateral
damage. At least 300 schools have sustained damage, and 183 teachers have lost their lives.
According to the World Health Organization, between October 7 and November 21, there were
178 attacks on medical facilities in Gaza, leading to the death of at least 553 people.
Additionally, the majority of hospitals in Gaza are no longer functional due to the destruction. A
blockade has been imposed, affecting the availability of water, food, medical supplies,
electricity, and fuel.
Amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza, which has lasting repercussions on
the lives of children, the family of Abigail Mor Edan, a 4-year-old Israeli-American girl held
captive for seven weeks, expressed relief as she smiled and laughed upon being reunited with
her extended family. This marks the second release of a U.S. citizen since the cease-fire began.
Children’s rights advocates have recently called on UN Secretary-General Antonio
Guterres to immediately add Israeli forces, the al-Qassam Brigades (Hamas’ armed wing), and
Islamic Jihad to his “list of shame” due to their mounting violations against children. This call
comes ahead of the regular annual report, and the “list of shame” identifies governments and
nongovernmental armed groups involved in serious violations against children in armed
conflicts, containing actions such as maiming, kidnappings, attacks on schools and hospitals,
and foiling humanitarian access.
