The international agency stated that the percentage of children identified as severely malnourished rose to 13.5 percent in August, up from 8.3 percent reported in July.

The organization underscored that in the northern city of Gaza, the percentage was at 19 percent, compared to 16 percent in July.

It warned that in absolute numbers, 12,800 children were identified as severely malnourished last month, despite that far fewer were examined due to the closure of 10 outpatient treatment centers in the north due to the attacks.

UNICEF pointed out that the proportion of children admitted for treatment suffering from severe acute malnutrition (SAM), the most deadly form, has continued to rise since early 2025.

It stated that one in five babies is born prematurely or with low birth weight in the Strip.

UNICEF called for the entry of more aid to the besieged Palestinian territory and the rehabilitation of the healthcare system to “maintain and revive essential services, including primary care.”

jdt/iff/kmg/rob