UNICEF Chief Visits Gaza, Describes Situation as 'Terrible'

On Wednesday, Catherine Russell, the Executive Director of UNICEF, visited Rafah and entered Gaza to observe the situation of children and its staff who have been affected by the current conflict between Hamas and Israel.

“Many people, including our staff and their families, are now living in overcrowded shelters with very little water, food or decent sanitation – conditions which could lead to disease outbreaks,” said Russell.

“At the Al Naser hospital in Khan Yunis, I met with patients and displaced families seeking shelter and safety. A 16-year-old girl told me from her hospital bed that her neighborhood had been bombed. She survived but doctors say she will never be able to walk again,” she added.

Earlier, the UNICEF chief expressed her deep concern regarding the reports of fuel shortages in incubators that are affecting newborns.

In a video message, Russell said: “From the UNICEF perspective, we're very focused on children and very worried about what's happens to the children there. The medical workers are struggling to keep the incubators functioning due to the unavailability of fuel. I am also very concerned about our staff living there through this terrible several weeks.”

Russell also expressed gratitude towards the coordinated efforts by the Egyptian government to ensure that life-saving aid reaches the most vulnerable families and children.

The UN top official made these remarks upon her arrival at the Rafah border, where she inspected the delivery of humanitarian aid for the civilians of besieged Gaza.