Gaza has been described as "the most dangerous place in the world for a child" by James Elder, a spokesperson for the UN children's agency, UNICEF, who expressed his anger and frustration at the situation in the Palestinian territory. Elder, who recently spent nearly two weeks in Gaza, spoke passionately about the horrific conditions endured by children in the region. He mentioned how children who had undergone amputations were killed in hospitals as a result of the ongoing Israeli army bombardment of the Gaza Strip. He also expressed his concern for the thousands of children who are at risk of being injured or killed in the coming days.

UNICEF: Gaza is the most dangerous place in the world for children@UN #GazaGenocide#IsraeliTerrorists pic.twitter.com/lABdZas9EB

— Haniii (@DoctorMaim97705) December 19, 2023

The situation in Gaza has reached a critical point, with the Nasser hospital in southern Gaza's main city, Khan Yunis, being shelled twice in the last 48 hours. This hospital not only provides care for children who have been injured in attacks on their homes, but also offers safety to hundreds of women and children seeking refuge. The recent attack by Hamas militants, which resulted in the deaths of 1,139 people in Israel, has triggered a retaliatory assault by the Israeli military, leading to devastating consequences for the people of Gaza, with at least 19,667 deaths reported, the majority being women and children.

Elder expressed his frustration at the lack of empathy and action from those in power, and lamented the fact that the upcoming Christmas season could bring increased violence and attacks to Gaza. He stressed the urgent need for international attention and assistance to address the humanitarian crisis in the region. As the world celebrates love and goodwill during the festive season, Elder's words serve as a powerful reminder of the urgent need to address the suffering and plight of the innocent children in Gaza.