UN urges protection and aid for Gaza’s children amid ceasefire
The UN’s humanitarian chief has called for urgent international action to protect children in Gaza, emphasizing their dire conditions amid a fragile ceasefire and ongoing humanitarian crisis.
Addressing a Security Council session on Thursday, the official highlighted the devastating toll of the 15-month conflict between Israel and Hamas on Gaza’s children. Thousands have died, an estimated 17,000 are now without families, and many face malnutrition, injury, and severe psychological trauma.
UNICEF estimates that 1 million children require mental health support due to anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. Education has also suffered, with schools destroyed and many children denied access to learning.
The ceasefire, brokered by Egypt, Qatar, and the US, has provided temporary relief, enabling increased humanitarian aid to Gaza and the reunification of Israeli hostages and detained Palestinians with their families.
The UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) has spearheaded operations, delivering food, medical supplies, and fuel to restore critical services such as healthcare and water systems. Emergency shelters have also been provided to shield residents from harsh winter conditions.
However, sustained funding and unhindered access are critical for these efforts to continue. The UN has appealed for $4.07 billion under its 2025 Flash Appeal, with nearly 90% allocated for Gaza’s humanitarian response.
The humanitarian chief also raised concerns about escalating violence and displacement in the West Bank, citing attacks by settlers and military operations that have uprooted thousands and caused extensive infrastructure damage. He urged the Security Council to ensure the ceasefire holds, humanitarian law is respected, and aid reaches all those in need.
