UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell has issued a stark warning following a new wave of violence in Gaza that claimed the lives of at least 15 children in just one day.
In a post on X, UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell described the scenes as horrific, noting that among the victims was a child with disabilities who burned to death while sheltering in a makeshift tent. “Images of children burning while sheltering in makeshift tents should shake us all to our core,” she wrote.
Since the breakdown of a ceasefire on March 18, nearly 600 children have been reported killed and more than 1,600 injured in the Gaza Strip, according to UNICEF data.
Russell called on all parties involved in the conflict to adhere to international humanitarian law by protecting civilians, allowing humanitarian aid, releasing hostages, and renewing efforts for a ceasefire.
The ongoing conflict, which began in October 2023, has resulted in the deaths of more than 51,000 Palestinians most of them women and children due to relentless Israeli airstrikes.
The situation has drawn increasing international legal attention. The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, citing war crimes and crimes against humanity. Meanwhile, Israel is also facing a genocide case at the International Court of Justice.
