The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued alarming reports confirming a significant increase in mortality rates among newborns in Gaza, attributing the surge to the prolonged Israeli aggression spanning 179 days.
During a press conference on Tuesday, WHO spokesperson Dr. Margaret Harris revealed distressing trends observed in maternity hospitals, with newborns being born significantly underweight, surpassing the normal threshold.
Many of these infants, born with low birth weight, are tragically unable to survive the postpartum period due to their diminished size, Harris stated.
Highlighting the dire situation, Harris emphasized that the Kamal Adwan hospital, the sole facility serving northern Gaza, is admitting an average of 15 malnourished babies daily.
The urgent needs of these infants are escalating rapidly, she stressed.
The extent of mortality cases among children remains difficult to ascertain accurately, Harris explained, attributing this challenge to the widespread devastation inflicted upon the Gaza Strip during six months of Israeli warfare.
She noted that many individuals refrain from seeking medical assistance, further complicating efforts to assess the full scope of the crisis.
Addressing recent developments, Harris underscored the establishment of a stabilization (inpatient care) center last week, designed to provide vital support to sick and malnourished children.
However, she lamented that the center is already overwhelmed with patients, highlighting the severity of the situation.
