UNICEF: “What is happening in Gaza is grave violation of children’s rights”

SANAA, Oct. 25 (YPA) – The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has announced that about 2,400 children were killed in Gaza and more than 5,300 were injured due to the continuous Israeli attacks during the past 18 days.

“The killing, maiming, and kidnapping of children, attacks on hospitals and schools, and denial of humanitarian access constitute grave violations of children’s rights,” said Adele Khader, UNICEF Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa.

Khader added, “The situation in the Gaza Strip represents an increasing stain on our collective conscience. The rate of deaths and injuries among children is shocking.”

She expressed concerns that the death toll could increase unless tensions are eased and humanitarian aid, including food, water, medical supplies, and fuel, is allowed in.

UNICEF urgently appeals to all parties to agree to a humanitarian ceasefire, allow aid to arrive, and release all hostages.

The statement of the organization concerned with the rights and support of children said that the West Bank also witnessed an alarming increase in the number of victims, as it was reported that about 100 Palestinians were killed, including 28 children, and at least 160 children were injured.

The organization called for an immediate ceasefire for humanitarian purposes and for relief to reach the Gaza Strip in a sustainable and unhindered manner, noting that the past 18 days witnessed the bloodiest escalation in the Gaza Strip since 2006.

YPA