Geneva: More than 340 children have reportedly been killed and hundreds injured in Gaza since the ceasefire between Hamas and Israel was announced, UNICEF said on October 16, warning that the truce had not brought safety to Palestinian children.

“For families mourning the loss of their children, those terrible statistics do not equate with a ceasefire,” spokesperson Ricardo Pires told reporters.

Five boys and two girls were reported killed during the preceding two weeks, while at least 33 children suffered serious injuries in air strikes, drone strikes and gunfire. Two other boys died from injuries sustained earlier, he said.

Around 800000 children remain displaced, most sheltering in tents or damaged buildings. UNICEF estimates that 60000 have lost one or both parents during the war or since the ceasefire, while nearly every child needs some form of mental health support.

The agency urged the parties to uphold the ceasefire, comply with UN Security Council Resolution 2803 and fulfil their obligations under international humanitarian law.

It said recovery required more than keeping children alive. They needed education, healthcare, dignified shelter, safe places to play and time with family and friends.

UNICEF also called for uninterrupted humanitarian and commercial supplies following reports that private traders had halted cooperation with Israeli authorities over the entry of food trucks.

Pires recalled the restrictions on supplies before the ceasefire, when UN backed food security experts declared famine. He warned against a return to conditions in which families could not obtain essential goods and services.

Despite continuing hardship, UNICEF said it had helped more than 560000 children resume learning since the ceasefire, including through over 200 supported learning centres.

The agency has also provided digital cash assistance to more than 380000 people and safe water to 1.2 million.