The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has said 2,360 children have died in Israel’s counter attacks in the Gaza Strip in response to Hamas’ October 7 attacks on southern Israel.
The aid group, which spoke of the “relentless attacks”, said 5,364 children have been injured.
Since the surprise Hamas attacks on October 7, Israel’s army has been bombing targets in the Gaza Strip and preparing a ground offensive in the sealed-off coastal area.
“The situation in the Gaza Strip is a growing stain on our collective conscience. The rate of death and injuries of children is simply staggering,” said Adele Khodr, UNICEF Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa.
He said the Gaza Strip is suffering from acute water shortages, with severe consequences for children, who make up about 50 per cent of the population.
UNICEF urged all parties to agree to a ceasefire, provide humanitarian access and release all hostages.