Occupied Jerusalem, April 5 (SANA) Around 2.47 million Palestinian children are living in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, accounting for 43 percent of the population and facing risks under Israeli occupation, according to the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics.
The figures, released in a report marking Palestinian Children’s Day and cited by the Palestinian news agency WAFA, highlight the scale of challenges facing children amid continued Israeli aggression and humanitarian strain. The report said 1.38 million children live in the West Bank and 1.09 million in Gaza.
Rising casualties
By the end of 2025, at least 72,289 Palestinians had been killed in Gaza, including 21,283 children, representing about 30 percent of the total, according to the data.
The impact has extended beyond military operations, with 157 children reported to have died from hunger and 25 from extreme cold in displacement camps.
Around 44,486 children have been injured, accounting for roughly 26 percent of total injuries.
Health and humanitarian conditions
More than 10,500 children are reported to be suffering from severe, long-term injuries, while around 4,000 remain at risk due to limited access to healthcare.
According to United Nations data, more than 3,700 children have been hospitalized due to malnutrition. About 64 percent of children face food shortages, while over 60 percent of those aged six to 23 months suffer from acute nutritional deprivation.
Arrests and rights concerns
Human rights groups have reported a rise in violations against Palestinian children, particularly in the West Bank.
More than 1,655 children have been detained by Israeli forces since the war on Gaza began, including around 600 in 2025 alone, according to prisoner advocacy groups.
Reports indicate that children in detention face harsh conditions and limited access to basic rights.
Psychological impact
The conflict has also had a significant psychological impact, with more than 1.1 million children experiencing trauma.
An estimated 58,000 children in Gaza have lost one or both parents, adding to social and economic pressures.
The report highlights the long-term risks facing Palestinian children, including limited access to healthcare, education and basic services.
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