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New York, 2 August 2025 — The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has issued a stark warning about the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, reporting that children are dying at an unprecedented rate due to famine and conflict-related conditions. The warning comes amid Israel’s continued military operations, which officials say will persist until all hostages held by Palestinian groups are released.
During a media briefing following his visit to the region, UNICEF Deputy Executive Director Ted Chaiban described the situation as “inhumane,” emphasizing the visible suffering among families and children. He called for an immediate and sustained ceasefire, alongside a political resolution to end the violence.
UNICEF estimates that over 320,000 children are currently at risk of severe malnutrition, with the global acute malnutrition rate exceeding 16.5%, surpassing the internationally recognized famine threshold. Since the onset of hostilities on 7 October 2023, more than 18,000 children have reportedly been killed, contributing to a total death toll of 60,332 Palestinians, with 147,643 injured.
The humanitarian situation has deteriorated sharply due to:
- Closure of all border crossings
- Suspension of international aid deliveries
- Complete cutoff of electricity and essential services
UNICEF has called for the urgent entry of at least 500 aid trucks per day into Gaza, including both humanitarian and commercial supplies, to prevent further starvation and loss of life.
Meanwhile, Israeli military officials have reaffirmed their commitment to ongoing operations in Gaza. Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, Chief of Staff of the Israeli Defense Forces, stated that combat will continue “without rest” unless negotiations result in the release of remaining hostages. Of the 251 hostages taken during Hamas’s October 2023 attack, 49 remain in Gaza, with 27 confirmed dead.
As diplomatic efforts stall and humanitarian conditions worsen, international agencies and rights groups continue to urge all parties to prioritize civilian protection and facilitate unrestricted aid access.
