UNICEF has warned 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 around 200 children reportedly killed in Iran, 91 in Lebanon, four in Israel and one in Kuwait. The organization noted that these numbers are likely to rise as the violence intensifies and spreads across the region.
The conflict has also caused major disruptions to education, leaving millions of children unable to attend school. Hundreds of thousands of children have also been displaced due to ongoing bombardment.
UNICEF said civilian infrastructure relied upon by children, including hospitals, schools and water and sanitation systems, has been attacked, damaged or destroyed by parties involved in the conflict.
“Nothing justifies the killing and maiming of children, or the destruction and disruption of essential services that children depend on,” the organization said in a statement.
UNICEF stressed that grave violations against children during armed conflicts may constitute breaches of international law, including international humanitarian and human rights law.
The organization reiterated the call by the UN Secretary-General for all parties involved to end the fighting and pursue diplomatic negotiations.
The statement also urged all parties to take necessary precautions in their methods of warfare to minimize harm to civilians, including avoiding the use of 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.”
