UNRWA: Every Hour a Child Dies in Gaza
Gazan woman with her child suffering of Famine, Photo: Middle East Eye
December 25, 2024 Hour: 1:11 pm
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) reported on Wednesday that the ongoing Israeli occupation is resulting in the death of a Palestinian child every hour in the Gaza Strip.
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Philippe Lazzarini, head of UNRWA, highlighted through social media platform X that surviving children are left with both physical and emotional scars. Many are deprived of education and are forced to scavenge through rubble to survive.
Lazzarini stated, “Time is running out for these children. They are losing their lives, their future, and above all, their hope.” A recent study sponsored by the NGO War Child Alliance, based in Gaza, reveals that 96% of Palestinian children feel that their death is imminent, while 49% express a desire to die.
The study also indicates that 92% do not accept the reality of their situation, 79% suffer from recurring nightmares, and 73% exhibit symptoms of aggression.
Helen Pattinson, Executive Director of War Child Alliance, emphasized that the report demonstrates Gaza as one of the “most horrific places in the world for children.” She noted that the destruction of hospitals, schools, and homes has left a trail of psychological devastation, inflicting invisible yet equally destructive wounds on children who bear no responsibility for this war.
Additionally, a report from the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights suggests that the number of child fatalities in Gaza may be even higher than estimates provided by UNICEF. According to this document, 44% of the 45,300 Palestinians killed by Israeli forces are children. Since October 7, 2023, Israeli aggression in Gaza has resulted in over 43,374 deaths and 102,261 injuries.
The alarming statistics underscore an urgent humanitarian crisis affecting the youngest and most vulnerable populations in Gaza. As international organizations call for immediate action to address these violations and protect children’s rights, the situation remains dire amidst ongoing conflict.
Autor: OSG
Fuente: WAFA-UNRWA
