After more than two years of devastating conflict, the situation for children and families in the Gaza Strip is catastrophic. Many are facing severe hardships after multiple and prolonged displacement and the widespread destruction of vital infrastructure. 71,803 Palestinians have been reported killed in the Gaza Strip, including at least 21,289 children. Additionally, 171,230 Palestinians have been injured, including 44,500 children.
Essential services have nearly collapsed: no hospital is fully functional, and only a small number of health facilities remain partially operational. Children are increasingly at risk not only from violence, but from disease, malnutrition, and lack of care. Respiratory infections, diarrhea, and other preventable illnesses are spreading rapidly, while unsafe water, poor sanitation, and overcrowded living conditions are exposing nearly the entire population to serious public health risks.
Despite these challenges, UNICEF continues to deliver life-saving support for children. In 2026, UNICEF is already:
- Vaccinating over 15,000 children under age 3, protecting them against life-threatening diseases such as polio, measles, and rotavirus
- Helping over 12,000 children get back on track with routine immunizations, reducing the risk of disease outbreaks
- Reaching more than 375,000 children with recreational and learning kits, supporting their learning, wellbeing and resilience
- Supporting over 135,000 children to resume learning through temporary learning centers
- Expanding access to life-saving nutrition through more than 200 nutrition facilities, reaching vulnerable children and mothers
- Restoring critical hospital care, including 11 pediatric intensive care beds and 55 neonatal intensive care unit beds
Children are least responsible for conflict but suffer most from its consequences. Your flexible support helps UNICEF meet the urgent needs of children. Unrestricted donations help UNICEF provide vital aid to children worldwide and will be directed to the area of greatest need.
