Gaza City: More than 50,000 children have been killed or injured in Israel's ongoing war on Gaza since October 2023, according to UNICEF. The UN children's fund highlighted the dire situation on Wednesday, emphasizing the urgent need for protection and essential supplies for the children of Gaza.

According to Anadolu Agency, UNICEF's Middle East Director Edouard Beigbeder stated that at least 1,309 children have been killed and 3,738 others injured since the resumption of Israeli air assaults on Gaza on March 18. Beigbeder called for immediate, collective action to end the violence and address the humanitarian needs of Gaza's children.

The conflict has led to tragic incidents, including the loss of nine children by Palestinian doctor Alaa Najjar, whose husband remains in critical condition following an airstrike on their home. Additionally, an Israeli strike on a school-turned-shelter in Gaza City resulted in the deaths of at least 31 people, including 18 children.

Beigbeder emphasized that these children should not be reduced to statistics, as they have endured grave violations, aid blockades, starvation, forced displacement, and widespread destruction of essential infrastructure. The Israeli offensive has resulted in over 54,000 Palestinian deaths, predominantly affecting women and children.

International bodies have responded to the situation. The International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants last November for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity. Israel also faces a genocide case at the International Court of Justice concerning its actions against civilians in Gaza.