Statement by UNICEF Regional Director Geert Cappelaere on Reports of Children Killed and Injured in Syria

NEW YORK (February 10, 2017) – “Violence in Syria this week has reportedly killed at least 20 children and injured others in several areas across the war-torn country. 

“In Idlib earlier in the week, violence reportedly left 30 people dead, including 16 children. Some of those killed were displaced from fighting in Aleppo. 

“In Homs’ Al-Zahraa and Al-Waer neighborhoods, attacks reportedly left four children dead and at least five injured.
 
“According to reports, other attacks also took place in East Ghouta, Rural Damascus, with children among the killed.
 
“These attacks appear to be among the heaviest since the start of the most recent cessation of hostilities on December 30, 2016.  
 
“Once again, UNICEF appeals to all parties to the conflict in Syria and those who have influence on them to protect the lives and well-being of children and provide unhindered and immediate access to those in need of medical care and lifesaving humanitarian assistance all over Syria.
 
“Killing and injuring children is a grave violation on children’s rights. They must stop once and for all.”

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