Nearly two children have lost their lives each day in Gaza despite the ceasefire that came into effect in October, UNICEF reported on Friday. The UN agency highlighted that the fragile agreement has failed to halt the ongoing humanitarian toll, as families continue to face the repercussions of what it described as a genocidal war. Since 11 October, at least 67 children have been killed, and dozens more injured, with each death leaving lasting trauma on their communities.

UNICEF spokesperson Ricardo Pires described harrowing conditions on the ground, including children sleeping outdoors after surviving amputations and others rendered orphans, cowering in flooded, makeshift shelters. The organisation warned that limited humanitarian access has hindered its ability to meet urgent needs, leaving vulnerable populations exposed to cold winter conditions, disease, and unsafe water. “Children are without heating, insufficiently covered, and increasingly exposed to respiratory infections and diarrhoea,” Pires said, noting that some continue to walk barefoot among the rubble.

The agency urged the international community to accelerate aid deliveries, emphasising that the stakes could not be higher. “Far too many children have already paid the heaviest price, and many are still paying it even under a ceasefire,” Pires said, calling for immediate action to ensure that the promises of protection and safety are upheld.