UNICEF Reports Over 50 Children Killed in 48 Hours in Gaza’s Jabalia

UNICEF has condemned recent attacks in Gaza, stating that Israeli forces killed more than 50 children within just 48 hours, particularly in Jabalia.

Catherine Russell, Executive Director of UNICEF, expressed her dismay over a violent weekend in North Gaza. In a statement released on Saturday, she called for an immediate cessation of attacks on civilians and humanitarian workers, as well as on the remaining civilian facilities and infrastructure in the region.

Russell detailed that the latest strikes in Jabalia resulted in the destruction of two residential buildings that were housing hundreds of individuals. She further highlighted an incident in which a UNICEF staff member’s vehicle, while engaged in a polio vaccination campaign, was fired upon—reportedly by a drone—while traveling through Jabalia. Although the vehicle sustained damage, the staff member escaped injury but was left deeply shaken by the experience.

In addition, Russell mentioned that at least three children were injured in a separate attack near a vaccination clinic in Sheikh Radwan during an ongoing immunization campaign. She stated, “The attacks on Jabalia, the vaccination clinic, and our staff member illustrate the severe consequences of indiscriminate strikes on civilians in the Gaza Strip.”

The recent violence adds to the grim statistics of child fatalities in North Gaza due to ongoing attacks, marking another tragic chapter in this devastating conflict. UNICEF emphasized that the entire population of North Gaza, especially children, faces an imminent threat of death from disease, famine, and relentless bombardments.

The organization has called on Israel to conduct an immediate investigation into the attack on its staff member and to ensure accountability for those responsible. Additionally, UNICEF urged member states to exert their influence to uphold international law and prioritize the protection of children. Russell concluded by stating, “It is time to end this war.”