UNRWA: Gaza Children Fetch Water for Hours, Families Use Seawater as Crisis Worsens
The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) issued a stark warning on Saturday regarding the dire situation in Gaza, Anadolu Agency reported today.
Children, according to the agency, are forced to spend a significant portion of their day, “6-8 hours a day,” collecting water and food. UNRWA highlighted the immense burden placed on these children, who often carry heavy loads and travel long distances to obtain basic necessities.
“Sanitation facilities & infrastructure are severely compromised,” UNRWA’s statement continued, “forcing thousands of families to rely on seawater to wash, clean & even drink.”
This alarming report comes amidst ongoing international condemnation of Israel’s offensive in Gaza, which began in October 2023. The UN Security Council has demanded an immediate ceasefire, yet Israel’s attacks persist. Local health authorities report a devastating toll: over 38,000 Palestinians killed, with a heavy concentration of casualties among women and children. Injuries surpass 87,000.
Nearly nine months into the war, Gaza faces widespread destruction. The situation is further compounded by a crippling blockade on essential supplies like food, clean water, and medicine. The International Court of Justice recently condemned Israel’s actions, accusing them of genocide and demanding an immediate halt to the offensive in Rafah, a southern city that provided refuge to over 1 million Palestinians before its invasion on May 6th.
