How Many Palestinian Children Have Been Killed in Airstrikes Over 48 Days? UNICEF

UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell has made a statement regarding the resumption of military operations in Gaza: the Gaza Strip is once again the most dangerous place in the world for children. Horrific violence has resumed after a 7-day ceasefire, leading to the inevitable death of more children.

Prior to the ceasefire, it was reported that over 5,300 Palestinian children had been killed in relentless bombardments over the course of 48 days, a figure that does not include many children who remain missing and are presumably buried under the rubble.

If violence returns at this scale and intensity, we can assume that hundreds more children will be killed and injured each day. If we cannot provide water, food, medicine, blankets, and warm clothing to those in need, we will face a humanitarian disaster.

During those days, children had a glimmer of hope amid this horrific nightmare. And that is what they should have: hope.

More than 30 children taken hostage in Gaza have been successfully released and reunited with their families. The humanitarian pause allowed for an increase in the supply of essential items to Gaza.

UNICEF and our partners were able to significantly expand the scope of operations and programs. We managed to start reuniting children with their families. While this was not enough to meet the scale of humanitarian needs, it was a beginning.

Now we require expanded, safe, and predictable access to those children who have been injured or displaced. Children need a lasting humanitarian ceasefire.

We call on all parties to ensure the protection of children and their assistance in accordance with their obligations under international humanitarian law. All children of the State of Palestine and Israel deserve the hope of peace and a better future.