UNICEF: Israel kills one Gaza child daily despite 'deadly illusion' of ceasefire

A "deadly illusion" is how UNICEF describes the ceasefire in Gaza, revealing that at least 265 Palestinian children have been killed by Israel since its announcement in October 2025. The UN agency highlights that violence against civilians, especially children, persists despite the supposed halt in fighting.

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On a period that should have been marked by restraint and protection, a child has been killed on average every day for more than eight months.

James Elder, a UNICEF spokesperson, stated on June 19, 2026, that an average of one child has been killed daily for over eight months. This period, which should have been marked by restraint and protection, has instead seen continuous loss of young lives. "While the world continues to talk about a ceasefire, families in Gaza continue to bury their sons and daughters," Elder said, characterizing the situation as a "cruel and deadly illusion."

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It is difficult to call the current situation a ceasefire when children continue to lose their lives.

These children have died in various locations, including their homes and schools, and even while engaged in activities like playing soccer or fishing. Elder cited recent incidents, such as a two-year-old shot dead by Israeli forces, a 13-year-old killed in a refugee tent, and a five-year-old who died with his father in an Israeli airstrike. UNICEF also reports that over 400 children have been injured since October 2025, many with life-altering severe wounds.

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While the world continues to talk about a ceasefire, families in Gaza continue to bury their sons and daughters.

The suffering extends beyond fatalities. UNICEF notes hundreds of children require immediate medical evacuation, but restrictions on medical supplies exacerbate risks of infection, complications, and amputations. Furthermore, the constant fear, loss, and violence have inflicted deep psychological trauma, with Elder stating that for Gaza's children, "fear, loss, and violence have become something so constant that trauma is no longer just an episode in their lives, but has merged with their childhood."

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The suffering does not stop with those killed. More than 400 children have been injured, many with very severe injuries.