11.10.2025 00:45
UNICEF spokesperson Ricardo Pires announced that more than 64,000 children have lost their lives or been injured in the attacks by the Israeli army in Gaza. Pires emphasized that the end of the conflict would be a hope for children and stressed the urgent need for vital support and aid to be delivered quickly.
UNICEF Spokesperson Ricardo Pires stated that more than 64,000 children have lost their lives or been injured in Gaza due to the attacks by the Israeli army, noting that approximately one-quarter of these children have suffered permanent injuries.
Ricardo Pires, Spokesperson for the United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF), said that the ceasefire achieved in Gaza is a 'much-needed, overdue ray of hope' for the children and families living in the region. In a statement made at the UN Office in Geneva, Pires emphasized that this hope can only be realized through 'urgent and swift actions,' calling on all parties to the conflict to implement and maintain the ceasefire.
MORE THAN 64,000 CHILDREN HAVE DIED OR BEEN INJURED
Pires pointed out that more than 64,000 children have lost their lives or been injured due to the attacks by the Israeli army, stating, "Approximately 25% of these children have sustained life-altering injuries. The ceasefire will bring hope that the killing and maiming of children can finally come to an end."
"THE COMING WINTER COULD BE DEADLY"
Pires stated that UNICEF is fully prepared to deliver aid, saying, "Aid must flow. Israel must open as many entry points as possible." Highlighting the serious risk of a significant increase in child deaths in Gaza, Pires noted, "Their immune systems are weaker than ever. They have not had access to sufficient food for years. When you add the lack of shelter and clothing to this, the coming winter could be deadly."
Pires indicated that UNICEF anticipated this situation, saying, "We started ordering winter supplies in July. We aim to provide two winter clothing sets for every baby under 12 months and one million blankets for every child." Pires also reported that preparations have been completed for the distribution of assistive products such as wheelchairs and crutches for injured children.
"THE CEASEFIRE MUST NOT BE JUST A WORD"
Pires stated that UNICEF will also focus on the restoration of water, drainage, and sanitation systems, as well as nutritional support, saying, "We have the capacity to improve the nutritional status of 50,000 children under five and 60,000 pregnant and breastfeeding mothers. However, nutritious supplies and treatment must flow into Gaza."
Emphasizing that the ceasefire should not be merely 'a word,' Pires said, "A genuine ceasefire must be maintained with children's rights at the center. This means that all crossings must be opened for humanitarian aid, and the support needed for every child to survive must reach them from north to south."