UNICEF Accuses Israel of Blocking Vital Syringe Delivery to Gaza, threatening Child Vaccinations
Gaza City/Jerusalem – UNICEF stated Tuesday that israel is preventing the entry of one million syringes desperately needed to vaccinate children in Gaza, jeopardizing routine immunization programs adn raising the risk of preventable disease outbreaks.The blockage comes amid ongoing conflict and a severe humanitarian crisis in the region.
The denial of entry for this essential medical supply impacts the health of approximately 700,000 children under the age of five in Gaza, according to UNICEF. Routine vaccinations protect against diseases like measles, polio, and diphtheria, and disruptions to these programs can have devastating consequences, especially for vulnerable populations already facing immense hardship. The agency is urgently appealing for access to deliver the syringes and ensure continued protection for Gaza’s children.
“The denial of this shipment is profoundly concerning,” said Lucia Elmi, UNICEF’s Special Representative for Israel and the State of Palestine, in a statement. “Vaccines are life-saving, and denying access to essential medical supplies is a grave violation of children’s rights.”
Israeli authorities have not yet publicly responded to UNICEF’s accusations. However, Israel maintains tight control over the movement of goods and people in and out of Gaza, citing security concerns related to Hamas, the militant group that controls the territory.
The situation is further complicated by the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, which has severely strained Gaza’s healthcare system. Hospitals are overwhelmed, medical supplies are dwindling, and access to healthcare is limited for many residents. UNICEF warned that a prolonged disruption to vaccination programs could lead to a resurgence of preventable diseases, exacerbating the already dire humanitarian situation.
The agency emphasized that the requested syringes are a standard medical supply and pose no security threat. They are crucial for administering vaccines procured through the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunisation (GAVI) and are intended for routine childhood immunizations, not for any other purpose. UNICEF continues to engage with Israeli authorities to secure immediate access and prevent a public health crisis in Gaza.
