In an eye-opening interview, Sonia Silva, the UNICEF representative in Gaza, discusses the devastating impact of the ongoing conflict on the region's children. According to Silva, over 20,000 children have been killed in Israeli bombings, and around 56,000 have lost one or both parents. The dire situation reflects not only the immediate dangers of violence but also the long-term consequences for child health and nutrition amid the chaos in Gaza.

Silva, who started her role in Gaza in November 2023, is focused on addressing critical needs for children, including the recovery of wastewater treatment infrastructure which is vital for public health. However, due to restrictions and the need for Israeli permits, her team's efforts are often thwarted, highlighting the complexities and challenges of delivering aid in a conflict zone. Silva emphasizes the abnormality of life in Gaza, where unpredictability reigns, and preparation is essential for any aid efforts.

The statement that one in five infants is born malnourished underscores a larger crisis wherein sustained conflict deteriorates health outcomes for the most vulnerable populations. Silva’s observations call attention to the urgent need for humanitarian intervention and the protection of children's rights, as ongoing violence continues to threaten their well-being and future.