Israel's Gaza aid blockade puts children's lives at risk: UNICEF

GAZA, March 5 (Xinhua) -- Blocking the entry of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, particularly medical supplies, will have devastating consequences for children's health, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) said on Wednesday.

In a press statement, UNICEF said that the continued blockade of medical supplies, including vaccines, could lead to the suspension of routine vaccination programs, putting Gazan children at risk of contracting preventable diseases.

The organization also highlighted that neonatal units in Gaza's hospitals will be unable to provide essential care for premature babies due to the lack of vital medical equipment and supplies.

UNICEF urged immediate and sustained humanitarian access, warning that thousands of children's lives will be at risk if the situation persists.

On Sunday, Israel announced that it would block the entry of goods and supplies into Gaza following the conclusion of the first phase of a ceasefire agreement with Hamas that took effect in January.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the decision was made to pressure Hamas into accepting a new proposal to extend the first phase of the ceasefire deal, which he said was put forth by U.S. Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff. ■