UNICEF: Israel Restricts Access to Vaccines and Infant Formula in Gaza

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has raised concerns over Israel's restrictions on essential supplies entering Gaza, including syringes for vaccinations and infant formula, which hampers humanitarian efforts in a war-affected region.

According to UNICEF, the delivery of 1.6 million syringes and solar-powered refrigerators intended for storing children's vaccines is facing substantial obstacles, as these items have been awaiting entry permits since August.

UNICEF spokesperson Ricardo Pérez noted that Israeli authorities categorize syringes and refrigerators as "dual-use" materials, meaning they could potentially be used for both military and civilian purposes. This classification complicates the process of obtaining customs approvals and passing inspections, despite the urgent need for these supplies to save children's lives.

UNICEF is actively conducting a large-scale vaccination campaign in Gaza, which began its first of three catch-up rounds on Sunday. The campaign aims to vaccinate over 40,000 children under three years old who have missed routine vaccinations for polio, measles, and pneumonia over the past two years.

The organization also reported that Israel continues to block other vital supplies, including approximately 938,000 bottles of infant formula and spare parts for water trucks necessary for distributing water in the area.

A ceasefire agreement that took effect on October 10 was intended to facilitate the flow of humanitarian aid across the region. However, humanitarian agencies have indicated that the quantities allowed to enter are insufficient to meet the needs of nearly two million people suffering from malnutrition and shortages of essential supplies.