UNICEF Warns of Devastating Impact on Gaza Children as Schools Remain Destroyed

UNICEF has warned that the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza has left nearly all of the territory’s schools in ruins, with 98% of educational facilities destroyed during the conflict. According to the organization, approximately 638,000 children have lost access to their classrooms.

In a recent report, UNICEF highlighted the lingering dangers posed by unexploded ordnance, which continue to threaten students and hinder efforts to resume schooling. The organization emphasized that, since the outbreak of hostilities in October 2023, no educational materials have entered the territory, severely affecting the delivery of education.

The report also noted the human toll on Gaza’s education sector, with around 1,000 teachers and 20,000 students killed during the conflict. Even after the declaration of a ceasefire, UNICEF reported that 70 children were killed, underscoring the urgent need to protect civilians.

UNICEF warned that the children of Gaza are likely to suffer lifelong physical and psychological consequences from the war. The organization stressed that the conflict has stolen the childhoods of Gaza’s youth and called for urgent care and support for those who have lost family members.

Palestinian media outlets cited UNICEF’s statements, highlighting the dire situation facing children and the pressing need for international attention to protect their rights and well-being.