The dawn of 2025 has brought unimaginable pain to Gaza. Violence has claimed the lives of 74 children within seven days. The numbers are horrifying, and each loss tells a devastating story.
Nighttime attacks in Gaza City, Khan Younis, and Al Mawasi have turned homes into graves. Al Mawasi, labeled a “safe zone,” has become a scene of tragedy.
Yesterday, an attack killed five children there, shattering any sense of refuge.
“For the children of Gaza, the new year has brought more death and suffering. A ceasefire is long overdue.” UNICEF’s Executive Director Catherine Russell said.
A Humanitarian Crisis Spiraling Out of Control
Gaza’s humanitarian situation has collapsed. More than a million children now live in makeshift tents. Families are displaced repeatedly, battling the bitter winter cold.
Since December 26, hypothermia has claimed the lives of eight newborns. These young lives are lost due to exposure and lack of proper shelter.
Children and infants are unable to withstand the freezing temperatures.
Civil order has disintegrated, and the looting of humanitarian goods has worsened the crisis. Families struggle to secure food, clean water, and sanitation.
Medical care is nearly impossible to find. Kamal Adwan Hospital, the last functioning pediatric hospital in northern Gaza, was raided.
It no longer operates, leaving thousands without critical care.
The destruction of infrastructure adds to the misery. UNICEF has warned of the dangers children face daily.
Families face relentless trauma and hardship. Children are the most affected. Surviving each day is a monumental challenge.
“Newborns and children with medical conditions are especially vulnerable,” Russell said.
Calls for Urgent Global Action
The escalating violence demands an immediate international response. Aid trucks entering Gaza are insufficient. They barely meet basic survival needs.
UNICEF’s plea for a ceasefire grows louder. Complying with international humanitarian law, which includes safeguarding civilians, aid personnel, and essential infrastructure, is crucial.
Aid delivery must improve. The current pace risks worsening the crisis. Truck and worker security is critical to prevent further looting.
Operational hospitals are overwhelmed. Medical workers face impossible odds. They treat countless casualties without enough supplies or space.
Children bear unimaginable psychological scars. They endure loss, displacement, and hunger.
Each day brings new struggles to find safety and warmth.
The world must not turn away. Long-term solutions are as vital as immediate relief. Without action, more innocent lives will be lost.
“Families need an end to this unimaginable suffering. The delivery of aid is a matter of life or death.” Russell emphasized.
The children of Gaza deserve better. Their lives, futures, and dignity hang in the balance. Everyone must act now to ensure their survival.
- 107shares
- Facebook Messenger
About the author
Arijit Negi is a seasoned journalist and Senior Contributor with expertise in global affairs, politics, and culture.
With a decade of experience in storytelling and analysis, his work aims to inform and inspire readers.
