Pakistan's UN Envoy highlights severe health crisis among Gaza's children

NEW YORK: At a recent United Nations Security Council meeting, Pakistan's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Munir Akram, called for Israel to be held accountable for actions during its 15-month military campaign in Gaza, emphasizing the profound health crisis affecting Palestinian children. He described the situation as a "black mark on humanity," highlighting severe violations against child health and well-being.

Ambassador Akram reported that over 46,000 individuals, predominantly women and children, have been killed in the conflict. He condemned violations of international humanitarian laws, including attacks on civilians, hospitals, and schools, which have led to significant health crises among children. He questioned the moral justification of such actions, stating, "What moral degradation allows something like that to happen?"

The meeting, convened at the request of Russia, Pakistan, Somalia, and Sierra Leone, aimed to address the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, focusing on the health and safety of children. Ambassador Akram urged the international community to ensure that such atrocities are never repeated and called for immediate humanitarian aid, reconstruction efforts, and accountability for those responsible.

He also welcomed the ceasefire brokered by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States but noted that it could have been achieved earlier. He stressed the importance of maintaining the ceasefire, accelerating humanitarian assistance, and addressing the urgent health needs of the displaced population in Gaza.

The health impact on Gaza's children is profound. According to reports, children in the Gaza Strip face the deadly effects of disease and malnutrition as ongoing conflict cuts them off from safe water, food, and medicine. 

Exposure to conflict has led to direct health effects, including injuries, disabilities, and death from bombings and shootings. Additionally, approximately 50,000 pregnant women in Gaza are at risk of adverse birth outcomes due to maternal stress, physical harm, malnutrition, and damage to healthcare infrastructure. 

Mental health is also a significant concern. A study by War Child reports that 96% of children feel death is imminent, and nearly half believe they will die because of the war. Many exhibit symptoms of aggression, fear, withdrawal, and severe anxiety, alongside a pervasive sense of hopelessness. 

Ambassador Akram's call to action underscores the urgent need for international intervention to address these health crises and protect the well-being of Gaza's children.