Conflict

1 million Gaza children urgently need support to address depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts: UN

Palestinians in Gaza come back to shattered homes and lost dreams. [Photo: X]

At least one million children in Gaza urgently require mental health and psycho-social support to address depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts, UN relief chief Tom Fletcher told the Security Council on Thursday.

Fletcher highlighted the critical impact of the ongoing ceasefire, describing it as a much-needed pause from relentless hostilities for Palestinians. “The ceasefire has provided a vital reprieve, and maintaining it is essential,” he stated, emphasizing the need for safe, unhindered humanitarian access to sustain aid efforts.

He painted a grim picture of the conflict’s toll, noting that “children have been killed, starved, frozen to death, maimed, orphaned, or separated from their families.” Fletcher shared conservative estimates indicating that over 17,000 children in Gaza are currently without their families. Additionally, he noted that approximately 150,000 pregnant women and new mothers are in dire need of health services, with some babies dying during childbirth alongside their mothers due to ongoing violence.

Fletcher urged international action, highlighting the collective efforts of humanitarian organizations, led by UNRWA, to meet pressing needs. However, he stressed that more aid is required. The UN’s 2025 Flash Appeal seeks $4.07 billion to assist 3 million people in Gaza and the West Bank, with most funding designated for Gaza. “Funding this appeal is critical to address immense needs and sustain the ceasefire,” Fletcher said.

He also reported worsening conditions in the West Bank, citing record-high casualties, displacement, and restricted access. “Israeli settlers have attacked Palestinian villages, setting homes and properties ablaze,” Fletcher said, further pointing to mass detentions and increasing barriers to basic necessities.

The situation in Jenin, marked by military operations, airstrikes, and helicopter gunfire, was singled out as particularly concerning. Fletcher described the resulting deaths, destruction, and displacement as deeply troubling.

Calling on the Security Council to act, Fletcher urged respect for international law and protection for civilians across Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem. “Civilians must be safeguarded, and their essential needs must be met,” he concluded.

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