The ongoing conflict in Gaza has resulted in severe humanitarian crises, with children being some of the most affected. According to Philippe Lazzarini, head of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), an average of ten children lose one or both legs daily due to the violence. This statistic, provided by UNICEF, does not account for children who have lost hands or arms.
The UNRWA, which coordinates nearly all aid to Gaza, is facing a liquidity crisis. Lazzarini mentioned that the agency has secured funding only until the end of August. The financial difficulties began in January when many countries suspended funding after allegations surfaced that some Gaza employees were implicated in the October 7 Hamas attack.
The situation in Gaza has further deteriorated due to continuous Israeli bombing. On Monday, Israeli forces targeted multiple areas, including the city of Rafah, the Nuseirat camp, and the Zaytoun neighborhood in Gaza City. According to medical sources, 19 Palestinians were killed in these raids.
The bombings have not only resulted in immediate casualties but also threaten long-term survival due to malnutrition. The government media office in Gaza warned that over a million children are at risk of malnutrition, with 3,500 children being 'closer to death' due to a lack of food and vaccinations. The destruction of the Rafah crossing by Israeli forces has exacerbated the situation, preventing 25,000 sick and injured people from traveling for treatment and hindering the entry of 15,000 aid trucks.
- The Israeli army has launched artillery and airstrikes on various parts of Gaza, leading to widespread destruction of homes and agricultural lands. Areas such as Bani Suhaila in Khan Yunis and the central and western parts of Rafah have been heavily bombarded.
- Al Jazeera reported that the Al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas, have claimed responsibility for targeting Israeli engineering vehicles and rescue forces with guided missiles.
- The humanitarian conditions in Gaza are rapidly deteriorating. The government media office has highlighted the urgent need for food and medical supplies, warning that the region is heading towards famine, especially in the Gaza and North governorates.
- The American floating dock used by Israel for security and military missions has also been implicated in the worsening conditions, including the 'Nuseirat Camp crime' on June 8.
