UNICEF Reports Surge in Palestinian Child Deaths

UNICEF reports a dramatic increase in violence against Palestinian children in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, with 143 children killed since October, marking a 250% rise from the previous nine months when 41 children died. Additionally, over 440 children have been injured by live ammunition during this period. UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell emphasized the ongoing horrific violence that children face, including allegations of being detained or shot while commuting to school. The report highlights that more than half of the child fatalities occurred in Jenin, Tulkarm, and Nablus, areas witnessing intensified military operations. The overall situation has deteriorated significantly due to the escalation of hostilities in Gaza, with UNICEF urging an immediate end to violence against children, who are now living in fear. The mental and physical well-being of thousands of children and families is severely impacted amid the ongoing conflict.