UNICEF Reports Over 320 Children Killed in Gaza Since Renewed Israeli Offensive
By Bizmart U.A.E
More than 320 children have lost their lives in Gaza within just two weeks of Israel’s latest military offensive, according to a stark report released by UNICEF. The United Nations children’s agency says an additional 609 children have been injured in what it describes as “relentless and indiscriminate bombardments” across the war-torn enclave.
The renewed assault began on March 18, after Israel blamed Hamas for rejecting a U.S.-backed ceasefire proposal aimed at securing the release of 59 Israeli hostages still believed to be held in Gaza. In response, Hamas accused Israel of violating the original ceasefire deal agreed upon in January.
UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell expressed deep alarm over the situation: “The ceasefire in Gaza provided a desperately needed lifeline for children and a path to hope. But once again, children have been thrust into deadly violence and unthinkable deprivation.”
According to the report, most of the children who were killed were already displaced, sheltering in fragile tents or damaged buildings—underscoring the lack of safe spaces for civilians in Gaza.
The agency cites figures from Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry, which are considered credible by the UN and other international organizations despite Israeli objections. Independent verification of casualties remains impossible as Israel has barred international journalists, including those from the BBC, from entering Gaza.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated it “remains committed to minimizing civilian harm” and adheres to international laws of warfare. However, with over 50,399 people reported killed since the conflict erupted in October 2023, the civilian toll—especially among children—has drawn global outrage.
UNICEF warned that the situation is rapidly deteriorating, noting that humanitarian aid has been completely blocked from entering Gaza since March 2—the longest aid halt since the war began. This has resulted in a sharp rise in malnutrition, disease outbreaks, and preventable child deaths.
“Without access to essential food, water, and medical care, the risks to children are not just from bombs, but from hunger, infection, and untreated wounds,” UNICEF’s statement read.
The agency also recalled the incident on March 23, when Israeli strikes killed eight medics, six Civil Defence responders, and one UN staff member in southern Gaza. Following this, the UN significantly scaled back operations in the region.
Since the war’s onset on October 7, 2023—triggered by a Hamas cross-border attack that killed about 1,200 Israelis and took 251 hostages—Gaza’s children have borne the brunt of the violence. UNICEF estimates over 15,000 child fatalities and more than 34,000 injuries, with nearly one million children displaced multiple times.
As the conflict rages on and negotiations stall, the international community faces growing pressure to intervene and safeguard the lives of Gaza’s youngest victims.
