UNICEF Reports Access to Vaccines and Baby Formula Blocked in Gaza

The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has raised concerns that Israel is obstructing the entry of crucial supplies into the Gaza Strip, including vaccination syringes and baby formula, hindering efforts by relief agencies to assist vulnerable populations in the conflict-affected area.

According to UNICEF, the delivery of 1.6 million syringes and solar-powered refrigerators, intended for the storage of children's vaccines, has faced substantial delays, with entry permits pending since August.

UNICEF spokesperson Ricardo Perez noted that Israeli authorities categorize these syringes and refrigerators as "dual-use" items, which complicates the process of obtaining customs permits and passing inspections, despite the urgent need for these supplies to protect children's health.

UNICEF is currently conducting a large-scale vaccination initiative in Gaza, having launched the first of three planned catch-up rounds on Sunday. This campaign aims to reach over 40,000 children under the age of three who have missed routine vaccinations for diseases such as polio, measles, and pneumonia over the last two years.

The organization also reported that Israel continues to block the entry of other essential supplies, including approximately 938,000 bottles of baby formula, as well as spare parts for water trucks necessary for water distribution in the region.

Despite a ceasefire agreement that took effect on October 10, intended to enhance the flow of humanitarian aid, relief agencies indicate that the amounts allowed into Gaza remain inadequate to meet the needs of nearly two million individuals facing malnutrition and a shortage of critical supplies.