Since Israel launched their military offensive in Gaza on October 7, 2023, over 17,000 Palestinian children have lost their lives, according to various reports. The Gaza Ministry of Health estimates at least 16,503 children had died by May 2025 alone (including 916 infants under one), comprising 4,365 aged 1-5, 6,101 6-10, 5,124 13-17 respectively and 5,124 aged 13-17 according to ElHuffPost and Al Jazeera sources. Al Jazeera’s investigation suggests the death toll may even exceed expectations, estimating at least 17,400 children may have perished with many more likely buried beneath the rubble. Al Jazeera The United Nations has highlighted the unprecedented scale of child fatalities in Gaza since October 2023, noting that more children have perished there than in any other conflict worldwide over recent decades. WASHINGTON Blockading Gaza has compounded an already dire humanitarian situation, leading to severe shortages of food, medicine and essential supplies such as clothing. UNICEF estimates that over 93% of Gaza’s children are at risk of starvation with many more facing imminent death due to starvation and inadequate healthcare provision. AAPnews.com Al Jazeera The psychological consequences for children living through armed conflict are substantial, with many experiencing trauma, loss of family members, displacement and displacement due to violence. According to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’ description of Gaza as “a graveyard for children”, emphasising the urgent need for ceasefire and humanitarian assistance. +1 As the conflict in Gaza rages on, international organizations and human rights groups are calling for immediate measures to safeguard children in Gaza and ensure they can access basic necessities safely.
