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UNICEF Says Israel Is Blocking Syringes and Baby Formula as Gaza Vaccination Drive Starts

Relief groups report that Israeli inspections tied to “dual‑use” designations are holding back critical child health supplies despite a truce meant to ease access.

Overview

  • UNICEF says 1.6 million syringes and solar-powered vaccine refrigerators have not been cleared for entry, with the syringes awaiting customs approval since August.
  • Nearly 938,000 bottles of ready-to-use infant formula and spare parts for water trucks are also being denied, according to UNICEF.
  • UNICEF has begun the first of three catch-up immunisation rounds targeting more than 40,000 children under three, reaching over 2,400 on day one.
  • Israeli authorities consider syringes and solar fridges “dual‑use,” which UNICEF says is complicating clearances needed to maintain vaccine cold chains.
  • COGAT did not respond to Reuters’ request for comment; it has previously said it is not limiting core aid and has accused Hamas of diversion, which Hamas denies.