Rising Toll: UNICEF Reports 322 Children Killed in Latest Gaza Offensive

In a stark report, UNICEF has disclosed that at least 322 children have lost their lives since the latest Israeli offensive began on March 18, with conditions in Gaza deteriorating rapidly due to ongoing bombardments and a blockade on humanitarian aid.

At least 322 children have been verified to have died since Israel commenced its recent military offensive in Gaza, according to the United Nations children's agency, UNICEF. More than 609 others have sustained injuries in the same timeframe. UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell emphasized the devastating impact on children, stating that a ceasefire had once offered a crucial reprieve, but the resumption of violence has thrown them back into hopelessness.

The renewed offensive was triggered on March 18 when Israel accused Hamas of disregarding a US-mediated ceasefire proposal that aimed to secure the freedom of 59 hostages held in Gaza. Conversely, Hamas alleges that Israel has breached earlier agreements established in January.

UNICEF reported that "relentless bombardments" have resulted in a shocking rate of fatalities, with approximately 100 children wounded or killed daily. Tragically, many of the deceased were found in makeshift shelters or damaged homes, highlighting the dire circumstances faced by the displaced population. It is worth noting that UNICEF bases its figures on data provided by the Hamas-run health ministry, which Israel has repeatedly contested. Independent verification remains challenging due to restrictions on journalists' access to Gaza.

In total, UNICEF has recorded over 15,000 child fatalities and 34,000 injuries since the onset of the conflict 18 months ago, along with around one million children repeatedly displaced. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has intensified, particularly following Israel's suspension of aid deliveries since March 2—the longest such interruption during the conflict. UNICEF warns that the lack of essential supplies could lead to increased malnutrition, disease, and further child deaths.

The United Nations announced on March 24 that it would scale back its operations in Gaza after tragic incidents led to the deaths of several medical personnel and a UN staff member. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have launched their campaign against Hamas in response to an unprecedented attack that occurred on October 7, 2023, which claimed around 1,200 lives and resulted in numerous hostages. According to the Hamas-run health ministry, more than 50,399 people have died in Gaza as the war continues to unfold.