Unicef says Israel blocking baby milk formula, vaccines for Gaza children

Unicef said on Tuesday that critical supplies such as syringes for childhood vaccinations and bottles used for infant formula are being blocked from entering Gaza by Israel, hindering humanitarian efforts in the war-ravaged region.

The agency said it is carrying out a large-scale vaccination drive for children during the current fragile ceasefire but is facing major obstacles in securing 1.6 million syringes and solar-powered refrigerators needed to store vaccine doses.

The syringes have been stuck awaiting customs clearance since August.

According to Unicef, Israeli authorities have categorised the syringes and refrigeration units as “dual-use” items — goods that could potentially have both civilian and military applications — making clearance and inspection procedures significantly more difficult.

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Despite these challenges, Unicef has begun the first phase of a three-stage catch-up immunisation initiative targeting more than 40,000 children under the age of three who missed routine vaccinations for polio, measles and pneumonia during two years of conflict.

The opening day of the campaign successfully reached over 2,400 children with multiple vaccine doses, but the organisation warns that additional supplies are required for the remaining rounds.