The Executive Director of UNICEF, Catherine Russell, has condemned the recent Israeli military escalation in Gaza, which has resulted in the highest number of child fatalities in a single day over the past year. In a statement on Tuesday, Russell described the situation as "horrific," with reports confirming the deaths of more than 130 children amid widespread airstrikes.  

Russell highlighted that the attacks targeted temporary shelters where families, including children, were sleeping, underscoring that "there is no safe place in Gaza." She also expressed grave concern over the blockade on humanitarian aid, noting that 16 days have passed since the last aid truck entered the besieged enclave.  

"One million children in Gaza, who have endured over 15 months of war, are now trapped in a world of fear and death," Russell stated. She called for an immediate end to the violence, the resumption of a ceasefire, and the urgent delivery of humanitarian aid. Russell also urged all parties to adhere to international humanitarian law, protect civilians, and release detainees.  

The recent Israeli offensive, which began in the early hours of Tuesday, saw airstrikes devastate civilian areas during the pre-dawn meal (Suhoor), killing hundreds and injuring many more. This escalation marks one of the deadliest phases of the ongoing conflict, further deepening the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.