Hey everyone, 🌏✨
On November 12, 2025, UNICEF rang the alarm: Israel is blocking the entry of 1.6 million syringes critical for Gaza's kids. These life-saving tools have been stuck in customs since August—imagine running a livestream without Wi-Fi! 📡🚫
Why the hold-up? Israel labels the syringes—and even solar-powered fridges for vaccines—as "dual-use" items with possible military applications. Here's the kicker: UNICEF spokesperson Ricardo Pires explains, "Both the syringes and the refrigerators are considered dual-use… yet they are urgent."
UNICEF kicked off round one of its catch-up immunization campaign on November 9, aiming to reach over 40,000 little ones under three who missed routine shots for polio, measles, and pneumonia. So far, 2,400+ children got vaccinated, but without more supplies, the next two rounds could be at risk. 😟
It gets worse: Israel has also blocked 938,000 bottles of ready-to-use infant formula and critical spare parts for water trucks. That's nearly a million bottles that could help malnourished toddlers stay healthy. 🍼💔
COGAT—the Israeli military unit managing aid flows—says it doesn't block these items and offers "alternative solutions," though it hasn't shared details. While hundreds of trucks still deliver food, water, and fuel daily, crucial health supplies remain stuck at the border.
Since the October 10 truce, relief agencies hoped for a big surge of aid. But with Gaza's 2 million residents facing displacement and malnutrition, the current flow isn't enough. 😔
What's next? UNICEF plans two more vaccination rounds later this month. To make them count, fresh syringes, fridges, formula, and water-truck parts need green lights—fast. 🤞💉
Stay tuned and spread the word. Every voice counts in pushing for these supplies—and protecting Gaza's most vulnerable. 🙌
Reference(s):
UNICEF: Israel blocks 1m syringes needed to vaccinate Gaza children
cgtn.com
