UNICEF says 351 children killed in Gaza since October 2025 ceasefire

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) said Thursday that 351 Palestinian children have been killed in the Gaza Strip since the ceasefire took effect in October 2025, calling on Israeli authorities to take urgent measures to protect children and ensure accountability for civilian casualties.

In a statement reported by the Palestinian news agency Wafa, UNICEF Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa Edward Bagbyder urged Israeli authorities to conduct transparent and rigorous investigations into cases involving the killing or serious injury of children, including injuries resulting in permanent disabilities.

Bagbyder said eight children had been killed and 20 others injured over the past six days, underscoring the continued dangers facing children despite the ceasefire.

He called for effective measures to prevent further violence and ensure compliance with international humanitarian law, particularly the principle of distinction between civilians and combatants and the special protections afforded to children.

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The UNICEF official stressed that the continued killing and injury of children was unacceptable and demanded stronger safeguards to prevent further casualties.

He also warned that children who survive attacks face significant challenges in recovering from their physical injuries and psychological trauma.

According to Bagbyder, the collapse of Gaza’s healthcare system has further undermined the ability of injured children to receive essential treatment, rehabilitation and psychological support.

UNICEF reiterated the urgent need to protect children in Gaza and ensure accountability for violations affecting them, warning that the humanitarian consequences of continued violence extend far beyond immediate casualties.

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