Severe Health Crisis Emerges for Gaza’s Children Amid Ongoing Conflict
The Palestinian Ministry of Health has issued a dire alert, indicating that over half a million children in Gaza, predominantly under five years old, are at heightened risk of infectious diseases due to the ongoing Israeli military offensive and the collapse of essential health services, reports 24brussels.
Dr. Ayman Abu Rahma, head of preventive medicine, highlighted that the overcrowding in shelters and camps, resulting from widespread displacement, has exacerbated the spread of severe diarrheal diseases and other infections. The dire absence of clean water, basic food supplies, and sanitation infrastructure has created conditions conducive to epidemic outbreaks.
“Any new wave of displacement will deepen the crisis,” stressed Abu Rahma, noting that children and the elderly are especially susceptible. He urged the international community to provide urgent support to Gaza’s health sector, particularly for early diagnosis and basic care for the displaced populace.
This alarming warning coincides with recent findings from the UN, which state that every child under five in Gaza is now at risk of life-threatening malnutrition.
UNICEF reports indicate that over 320,000 children are currently suffering from acute undernutrition, with thousands facing the deadliest form—severe acute malnutrition. Hospitals are overwhelmed, with less than 15% of essential nutrition services operational.
Dr. Ahmed Al-Farra, director of Pediatrics and Maternity at Nasser Medical Complex, criticized the global silence on this crisis: “The world should be ashamed of the famine in Gaza.” He revealed that approximately 5,000 chronic patients are experiencing dangerous blood sugar imbalances due to food shortages, significantly hindering child growth.
The humanitarian situation continues to worsen as aid remains insufficient and access is frequently blocked. UN agencies warn that without immediate and unrestricted access to food, water, medicine, and sanitation, the death toll among Gaza’s children will surge dramatically.
