Statement by UNICEF Executive Director Anthony Lake on Killing of ICRC Workers in Afghanistan and SARC Workers in Syria

NEW YORK (February 8, 2017) – “We are saddened and outraged by the cruel killings today of six workers for the International Committee of the Red Cross in northern Afghanistan, and two workers for the Syrian Arab Red Crescent in Aleppo, Syria.

“Our deepest sympathy is with the families of those who lost their lives, and our thoughts are with those who were injured in these attacks. We remain deeply concerned for two ICRC workers who were reportedly abducted during the attack in Afghanistan.

“This double tragedy is a reminder of the risks humanitarian workers face all over the world today as they work to help others.  We best honor their heroism – and the sacrifice of those who lost their lives today -- by supporting and strengthening their work.

“All of us at UNICEF stand in solidarity with our partners at the ICRC and SARC.”

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