The head of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees revealed that more children have died in the Gaza conflict in just over four months than in four years of global wars combined,” stated Philippe Lazzarini on X, formerly known as Twitter.
The information you provided highlights the devastating toll on children in conflicts, with more than 12,300 child deaths reported in Gaza between last October and February, according to the health ministry. Philippe Lazzarini emphasized the gravity of the situation, labeling it a war against children’s well-being and future. The conflict began with a significant Hamas attack on October 7, resulting in around 1,160 deaths in Israel, predominantly civilians, according to AFP estimates based on Israeli official figures.
The militants seized approximately 250 hostages, with some released during a week-long truce in November. Israel estimates around 130 captives, including 32 presumed deceased, are still held in Gaza.
Israel’s counterattacks, including airstrikes and ground offensives, have resulted in the deaths of 31,184 Palestinians in Gaza, with the majority being women and children, as reported by the territory’s health ministry.