OCCUPIED JERUSALEM (Palestine Foundation Information Center) UNICEF has warned that the stoppage of aid deliveries into the Gaza Strip will quickly lead to devastating consequences for children and families across Gaza who are struggling to survive.
“The aid restrictions announced yesterday will severely compromise lifesaving operations for civilians,” said Edouard Beigbeder, UNICEF Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa. “It is imperative that the ceasefire – a critical lifeline for children – remains in place, and that aid is allowed to flow freely so we can continue to scale up the humanitarian response.”
“While the ceasefire has allowed us to significantly expand lifesaving aid, the level of devastation in Gaza is beyond catastrophic,” said Beigbeder. “The ceasefire must hold, and more aid must be allowed in to prevent further suffering and loss of life.”
Despite the increase in humanitarian aid entering the Gaza Strip, conditions for children remain extremely dire, UNICEF said in a statement.
“Seven newborn babies reportedly died from hypothermia over the past week because they lacked access to sufficiently warm clothes and blankets, shelter, or medical care. These preventable deaths are heartbreaking and serve as a stark reminder that more aid is desperately needed.”
“Children and families across Gaza are struggling to survive without enough food, medicine, or shelter. And with 19 out of 35 hospitals only partially functioning, the health system has been stretched far beyond its limits.”
