UNICEF Warns Gaza Ceasefire Has Failed to Protect Children as Humanitarian Crisis Continues

UNICEF Warns Gaza Ceasefire Has Failed to Protect Children as Humanitarian Crisis Continues
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UNICEF has warned that hundreds of children have been killed in Gaza since the ceasefire announcement, calling for immediate measures to turn political agreements into effective protection for civilians and children.

According to UNICEF, at least 300 children have died in the Gaza Strip during the 300 days since the ceasefire was announced in October 2025, an average of one child every day. The UN agency said that despite agreements aimed at halting military operations and allowing humanitarian aid into the territory, child casualties have continued.

Edouard Beigbeder, UNICEF Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa, said that a ceasefire in which a child continues to die every day is insufficient to protect Gaza’s children. He added that hundreds of other children have been injured, many suffering serious wounds.

UNICEF said recent discussions on the next phase of the ceasefire have included plans to end hostilities and expand humanitarian assistance, but stressed that these commitments must be translated into concrete actions to prevent further deaths.

The agency called on all parties to respect their obligations under international humanitarian law and ensure the protection of children, including access to healthcare, education, safe drinking water and food.

The warning comes as humanitarian conditions in Gaza remain severe, with reports indicating extensive damage to medical facilities, schools and basic infrastructure, while aid organizations continue to call for safe, rapid and unrestricted humanitarian access to affected communities.