Gaza city: Over 5,800 children in Gaza were diagnosed with malnutrition in June, according to the UN children's agency (UNICEF). The report released on Sunday highlights a concerning trend of rising child malnutrition in the region.

According to Anadolu Agency, UNICEF's statement detailed that at least 5,870 children required hospitalization for urgent treatment last month. The cases included more than 1,000 instances of severe malnutrition, representing an increase for the fourth consecutive month. The escalating numbers saw 2,068 children admitted for treatment in February, 3,259 in March, 3,444 in April, and 5,514 in May.

UNICEF emphasized the gravity of the situation, describing it as more than just a nutrition crisis but a child survival emergency. The agency has called for an urgent and comprehensive delivery of humanitarian aid and a lasting ceasefire to support the children in Gaza.

According to Palestinian figures, the ongoing crisis has resulted in the death of at least 67 children due to hunger in the conflict-ridden Gaza Strip since October 2023. The Israeli blockade, which has restricted access to food, medical, and humanitarian aid since March 2, has exacerbated the severe humanitarian conditions in the enclave, affecting its 2.4 million residents.

The Israeli military campaign, ongoing since October 7, 2023, has resulted in the deaths of over 58,000 Palestinians, predominantly women and children. The relentless attacks have led to significant destruction, food shortages, and the spread of disease in Gaza.

Last November, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, citing war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. Additionally, Israel is facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice for its actions in the enclave.