Statement Attributable to Meritxell Relaño, UNICEF Representative in Yemen on Attacks Near a School

NEW YORK (January 11, 2017) – “One child was confirmed killed and four others were injured when two attacks hit near the al-Falah school in the Nihm district outside the capital, Sana’a.

“Attacks on civilian areas continue to kill and injure scores of children in Yemen. Instead of learning, children are witnessing death, war, and destruction.

"Since the escalation of the conflict in March 2015, the United Nations verified that nearly 1,400 children were killed and over 2,140 were injured. The actual numbers are likely to be much higher. Nearly 2,000 schools in Yemen can no longer be used because they are destroyed, damaged, shelter displaced families or are being used for military purposes.

“Schools have to be zones of peace at all times, a sanctuary where children can learn, grow, play and be safe. Children should never risk their lives only to attend school.

“UNICEF renews its call on all parties to the conflict in Yemen and those who have influence over them to protect children and stop attacks on civilian infrastructure including schools and education facilities, in accordance with their obligations under international humanitarian law”.

About UNICEF
The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) works in more than 190 countries and territories to put children first. UNICEF has helped save more children’s lives than any other humanitarian organization, by providing health care and immunizations, clean water and sanitation, nutrition, education, emergency relief and more. The U.S. Fund for UNICEF supports UNICEF's work through fundraising, advocacy and education in the United States. Together, we are working toward the day when no children die from preventable causes and every child has a safe and healthy childhood. For more information, visit www.unicefusa.org.

For more information, contact:
Sophie Aziakou, U.S. Fund for UNICEF, 917.720.1397, saziakou@unicefusa.org