Day: October 12, 2023
The war between Israel and Hamas has claimed the lives of hundreds of children in Gaza, who have been killed, injured, or displaced by the relentless Israeli airstrikes and shelling.
According to the Palestinian Health Information Center, at least 260 children have died and more than 370 have been wounded since the Israeli offensive on Gaza.. The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has condemned the grave rights violations against children and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities.
Children in Gaza are also facing a humanitarian catastrophe, as Israel has imposed a total blockade on the besieged territory, cutting off the supply of electricity, water, fuel, food, and medical aid. Hospitals are overwhelmed with casualties and running out of essential supplies, while schools and homes have been destroyed or damaged. More than 100,000 people have been displaced and are seeking shelter in UN-run facilities or with relatives.
The psychological trauma of living under constant fear and violence is also taking a toll on the children’s mental health and well-being. Many children have witnessed horrific scenes of death and destruction, lost their loved ones, or suffered injuries themselves. They are also deprived of their basic rights to education, recreation, and protection.
The war has also affected children in Israel, who have been exposed to rocket attacks from Hamas and other armed groups in Gaza. According to the Israeli authorities, at least 900 people have been killed and 2,600 others have been injured by the rockets, which have targeted civilian areas across the country.
The international community has urged both sides to end the hostilities and respect the international humanitarian law, which prohibits attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure.
The war between Israel and Hamas is not only a political conflict, but also a human tragedy that affects millions of people, especially children, who are the most vulnerable and innocent victims. The war must stop before more lives are lost and more damage is done. The children of Gaza and Israel deserve peace and justice.