COLOMBO : UNICEF warns that the escalating conflict in the Middle East has created a “catastrophic” situation for millions of children, with more than 1,100 reported killed or injured since 28 February.
According to UNICEF, the casualties include 200 children reportedly killed in Iran, 91 in Lebanon, four in Israel and one in Kuwait. The organisation says these numbers are expected to rise as violence intensifies and spreads across the region.
The conflict has resulted in widespread disruption to education, leaving millions of children out of school, while hundreds of thousands have been displaced due to continuous bombardment.
UNICEF reports that civilian infrastructure relied upon by children, including hospitals, schools, and water and sanitation systems, has been attacked, damaged or destroyed by parties to the conflict.
“Nothing justifies the killing and maiming of children, or the destruction and disruption of essential services that children depend on,” the statement said.
UNICEF stressed that grave violations against children in armed conflict may amount to breaches of international law, including international humanitarian and human rights law.
The organisation reiterated the UN Secretary-General’s call for parties to end the fighting and pursue diplomatic negotiations.
The statement urged all parties to take necessary precautions in the means and methods of warfare to minimise harm to civilians, including avoiding explosive weapons that disproportionately affect children.
UNICEF concluded by stressing the urgency of global action, stating that “the region’s children ,all 200 million of them, are counting on the world to act quickly.” news first
