Gaza, April 9, 2025: The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) has sounded the alarm over the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, warning that Israel’s continued blockade is having a “devastating impact” on children, who are now deprived of basic necessities including food, water, and medical care.
“It has been over five weeks since the Israeli-imposed siege suspended the entry of aid and commercial supplies into Gaza,” UNRWA said in a statement. “Safe water, food, shelter, and medical assistance have become increasingly scarce. The impact on children is devastating.”
Since March 2, Israel has sealed Gaza’s crossings, preventing the delivery of humanitarian aid and vital supplies. The situation has deteriorated rapidly, with international agencies warning of widespread hunger and disease.
“In northern Gaza, children are no longer searching for toys or books — they are searching for water,” the agency stated. “Instead of going to school, many are pushing carts through rubble-strewn streets to fetch water and food — anything to ease their suffering.”
UNRWA further reported that on Saturday, the Israeli army cut off 70% of Gaza’s water supply by halting flow from the Israeli water company Mekorot. This has intensified an already dire public health crisis in the densely populated enclave.
The blockade comes amid renewed Israeli military operations in Gaza, which resumed on March 18, shattering the January ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement. According to Palestinian health authorities, nearly 1,500 people have been killed and more than 3,700 injured in the latest offensive.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to further escalate military actions as efforts continue to implement what observers say is US President Donald Trump’s controversial plan to displace Palestinians from Gaza — a strategy that has been widely condemned by human rights groups and international law experts.
UN agencies, humanitarian organizations, and regional partners have called for an immediate ceasefire, restoration of aid access, and protection of civilians, particularly vulnerable groups like children.
“The world cannot turn a blind eye as Gaza’s children are being pushed to the brink,” UNRWA concluded.
