Toronto, ON, December 5, 2023 – Following the week-long pause and the release of 110 hostages (Israeli and other nationals) from Gaza and 240 Palestinian prisoners, hopes held out by humanitarian agencies for a lasting ceasefire were crushed when conflict resumed on December 1.

More than  500 civilians – including children – have been killed since bombing resumed, according to the Palestinian health ministry, as of December 4. Of those killed, 70% have been women and children. The UN says more than 1.9 million people in Gaza are now displaced from their homes.

This sudden escalation of violence reverses the limited gains made in terms of humanitarian assistance during the pause. In addition to the devastating number of deaths, the total destruction of health facilities and lack of basic sanitation, clean water and other life-saving and life-sustaining infrastructure and materials bring a grave risk of more children dying of disease and starvation. Sustained bombing is causing emotional distress and trauma.

With Israel expanding its military ground operations in the south of the Gaza Strip on Sunday, millions of people who had previously fled from the north have been left with nowhere to go. The health system in Gaza has now collapsed, and UNICEF staff have described the few hospitals that remain in operation as “war zones.”

There is never any justification for the killing or maiming of children. In war and conflict, children are always innocent and must not be targeted.

While limited humanitarian assistance is being provided, the intensifying violence makes the situation in Gaza immensely dangerous for humanitarians and civilians alike.

Plan International is closely monitoring the situation in Gaza and is preparing to scale up operations through our offices in Egypt, Jordan and Lebanon and through local partners. Plan International Egypt is supporting the Egyptian Red Crescent to deliver supplies including food and first-aid kits via the Rafah crossing, while Plan International Jordan is partnering with Terre Des Hommes to support its work in Gaza. In the south of Lebanon, where cross-border tensions have led to widespread internal displacement, Plan International Lebanon is providing a range of support to displaced children and their families, including food, non-food items and household hygiene kits.

With the two-month mark of this terrible escalation of violence approaching, Plan International continues to call on all parties involved to respect international humanitarian law, including the protection of children and civilians; for an unconditional, immediate, sustained and complete ceasefire; and for improved humanitarian access. We also call for the release of all civilian hostages and Palestinian children held as prisoners.

About Plan International Canada

Plan International Canada is a member of a global organization dedicated to advancing children’s rights and equality for girls. Plan International has been building powerful partnerships for children for over 85 years and is now active in more than 80 countries.

We stand with children, especially girls, wherever they are oppressed, exploited, left behind or not equally valued. We’re determined optimists and will continue to persevere until we are all equal.