‘Between pain and fear’: Gaza children bear cost of ongoing Israeli attacks

What Happened

Ongoing Israeli military operations in Gaza have resulted in significant child casualties and the displacement of families, despite a ceasefire announced in October 2025. UNICEF reports that at least 21,289 Palestinian children have been killed and 44,500 wounded since October 2023, with an additional 1,000 Palestinians killed in Israeli attacks since the ceasefire began. Specific incidents include a June 2 strike in Gaza City that killed the parents and siblings of seven-year-old Hala Lubbad, and a May 25 strike in al-Mawasi that killed the mother of two-month-old Mohammed al-Khatib and resulted in the amputation of his left leg.

Key Actors

Why It Matters

The high rate of child mortality, permanent disability, and orphanhood in Gaza creates a long-term humanitarian crisis, with the UN estimating 17,000 children have been orphaned or separated from their caregivers. The inability to access specialized medical care for severe injuries, such as burns and amputations, exacerbates the physical and psychological trauma for the surviving population.

Watch For

Monitor reports from humanitarian organizations regarding the continued violation of the October 2025 ceasefire and the status of medical evacuation efforts for critically injured children requiring treatment outside the Gaza Strip.