UNRWA Reports Rising Malnutrition Rates Among Children In Gaza Strip

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) has raised concerns about increasing malnutrition among children in Gaza. According to recent data from UNRWA clinics, one in ten children is currently malnourished. This situation has worsened since the blockade intensified four months ago.

Juliette Touma, UNRWA's Director of Communications, highlighted that health teams have screened over 240,000 children in Gaza since January 2024. However, therapeutic supplies to address malnutrition are nearly depleted. The agency faces critical shortages of medicines, nutritional items, fuel, and hygiene products.

UNRWA's food stocks were exhausted by late April. Since March 2, Israeli forces have prohibited the entry of humanitarian aid, including food and medicines. Consequently, nearly 60% of essential medicines are no longer available in UNRWA warehouses.

Touma also addressed the ongoing Israeli aggression in the West Bank. She described it as a "silent war" that is escalating alongside events in Gaza. Severe movement restrictions imposed by Israeli forces have exacerbated poverty and unemployment due to lost livelihoods.

Despite these challenges, UNRWA continues its operations across the occupied Palestinian territories. A local workforce of 14,000 people delivers crucial services like healthcare and education to Palestinian refugees and others in need.

The situation remains dire as UNRWA struggles with limited resources to meet growing needs. The agency's efforts are crucial for supporting vulnerable populations amid ongoing conflicts and restrictions.

With inputs from WAM