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Unicef statement on deadly attacks near school in Yemen
Meritxell Relaño, UNICEF Representative in Yemen, said: “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.”
For more information please contact:
Valentina Bollenback, Unicef UK, +44 (0)207 017 1770 or ValentinaB@unicef.org.uk
Unicef UK Media Team on +44 (0)207 375 6030 or media@unicef.org.uk
About Unicef:
Unicef is the world’s leading organisation for children, promoting the rights and wellbeing of every child, in everything we do. Together with our partners, we work in 190 countries and territories to translate that commitment into practical action, focusing special effort on reaching the most vulnerable and excluded children, to the benefit of all children, everywhere.
Unicef UK raises funds to protect children in danger, transform their lives and build a safer world for tomorrow’s children. As a registered charity we raise funds through donations from individuals, organisations and companies and we lobby and campaign to keep children safe. Unicef UK also runs programmes in schools, hospitals and with local authorities in the UK. For more information please visit unicef.org.uk
