UNICEF: At least 322 children killed in Gaza in 10 days

Sharjah 24 – AFP: Israel's renewed offensive in Gaza has reportedly left at least 322 children dead and 609 wounded in the Palestinian territory in the past 10 days, UNICEF said Monday.

Impact of attacks on Gaza's children

The figures include children who were reportedly killed or wounded when the surgical department of Al Nasser Hospital, in southern Gaza, was hit in an attack on March 23, the UN children's agency said in a statement.

Humanitarian crisis

UNICEF said most of these children were displaced, sheltering in makeshift tents or damaged homes. Ending a nearly two-month ceasefire, Israel resumed intense bombing of Gaza on March 18 and launched a new ground offensive.

Calls for protection and assistance

UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell emphasized the ceasefire had provided a lifeline for Gaza's children but said that children have again been plunged into deadly violence and deprivation. She urged all parties to adhere to international humanitarian law and protect children.

Urging for an end to hostilities

After nearly 18 months of war, UNICEF reported more than 15,000 children killed, over 34,000 injured, and nearly one million children displaced. The agency called for an end to hostilities and the lifting of Israel's humanitarian aid ban, in place since March 2.