Gaza war leaves over 21,000 children dead, aid group reports
Save the Children says more than 21,000 children have been confirmed killed in Gaza after 1,000 days of war, while hundreds of thousands have lost access to education and remain displaced. The organization called for an immediate ceasefire, greater protection for children and expanded humanitarian assistance.
At least 21,000 children have been confirmed killed in Gaza during 1,000 days of war, according to Save the Children, which warned that the humanitarian crisis continues to devastate the lives of nearly every child in the enclave. The organization said widespread displacement, disrupted education and worsening food insecurity remain among the genocide's most severe consequences.
Aid agency warns of lasting impact
Marking the 1,000th day of the Gaza war, Save the Children said the international community had failed to protect the territory's children despite the prolonged genocide. "Every day for the past 1,000 days, the world has failed one million children in Gaza, by not intervening to stop the killing and maiming of children," said Ahmad Ahendawi, the organization's Regional Director for the Middle East, North Africa and Eastern Europe.
The charity said the confirmed child death toll is likely an underestimate, as many victims are believed to remain beneath collapsed buildings. It also reported that more than 800,000 children—around 80% of Gaza's child population—have been displaced, while approximately 625,000 school-age children have missed three consecutive years of formal education.
Children describe life under war
Save the Children shared testimonies from children living in Gaza, many of whom spoke of constant fear while expressing hope for an end to the genocide. "We could die at any moment. I hope the war stops for us," said 14-year-old Amani.
"I hope the war stops so that I can continue my education in Gaza and live my rights as a human like any girl in other countries. There are many children in Gaza whose voices are not heard," she added.
Another 14-year-old, Bisan, said: "My wish is for the war to stop, for every one of us to return to their home, and for our lives to return to how they were."
Calls for ceasefire and accountability
The organization warned that humanitarian conditions continue to deteriorate, estimating that around 245,000 children are either at risk of or already affected by malnutrition because aid deliveries remain insufficient.
Save the Children also referred to a recent UN Commission of Inquiry report that alleged Israeli authorities and security forces deliberately targeted Palestinian children, leading to allegations of genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes in Gaza.
The organization renewed its call for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, accountability for violations against children and the suspension of arms transfers to Israel. Although a ceasefire was reached in October 2025, Israeli attacks in the Gaza Strip have continued. According to figures cited in the report, the war has claimed more than 73,000 lives and caused widespread destruction across the enclave.
Comments you share on our site are a valuable resource for other users. Please be respectful of different opinions and other users. Avoid using rude, aggressive, derogatory, or discriminatory language.