The Rest Is Politics: Leading 152. "A War on Children": A Generation in Gaza at Risk (James Elder)
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Sep 7, 2025 
James Elder, a UNICEF spokesperson with two decades of experience in humanitarian crises, sheds light on the dire situation in Gaza. He details the unprecedented humanitarian challenges, particularly for children caught in conflict. The discussion emphasizes the resilience of the Palestinian community, addressing issues of medical shortages and the importance of education. Elder also highlights the role of storytelling in raising awareness, urging global compassion and advocacy for vulnerable populations amidst continuous suffering.
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Harrowing Hospital Evacuations
- James Elder describes seeing children with catastrophic war wounds and severe burns unlike anywhere else in his UNICEF career.
- He recounts a bus evacuation where many injured children later died after a three-day, checkpoint-delayed journey.
Bearing Witness Replaces Normal Reporting
- James says reporting on Gaza has structural flaws because journalists are largely excluded and UN staff must bear witness.
- He argues UNICEF cannot be neutral on facts when children are starving or being bombed.
Checkpoint Delays Cost Lives
- James recounts boarding a bus of severely wounded children evacuated from Shifa after a siege and smelling burning flesh.
- He watched many of those children die, and links delays at checkpoints to their deaths.