BRUSSELS: In a press conference held at the United Nations headquarters in Brussels, UN Humanitarian Coordinator Muhannad Hadi revealed that between 17,000 and 18,000 children in Gaza are currently orphaned and without protection.

Hadi highlighted the dire conditions faced by these children, noting that many are forced to gather firewood instead of attending school or playing due to a lack of electricity and cooking gas.

He described the sight of children selling worthless items, such as broken door handles or cups, on the streets as a stark indication of the extreme poverty in Gaza. The shortage of cash has further exacerbated the economic and humanitarian crisis.

During his visit to Gaza in August, Hadi likened the extensive destruction he witnessed to a “horror film,” emphasizing that basic necessities like clean water, coffee, and breakfast have become distant dreams after 11 months of war.

Hadi also discussed the significant challenges faced by humanitarian workers in delivering aid, citing issues wi
th visas, border crossings, and other obstacles.

He noted the grave risks they encounter, including incidents of gunfire targeting UN and humanitarian vehicles. For instance, a World Food Programme vehicle was hit by ten bullets in August.

Hadi reported that 214 staff members from UNRWA and seven from the Global Central Kitchen have lost their lives in the course of their work during the ongoing Israeli aggression.

He warned that the crisis in Gaza and the West Bank has far-reaching implications for the entire region.

Source: Palestine News and Information Agency – WAFA