Statement by UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell on deteriorating situation for children in Israel and the State of Palestine

NEW YORK (October 10, 2023) –  “Nothing justifies the killing, maiming or abducting of children – grave rights violations which UNICEF wholeheartedly condemns.

“Yet less than 72 hours after the outbreak of horrific violence in Israel, reports indicate that grave rights violations against children are rampant. Many children have been killed or injured, while countless others have been exposed to the violence.

“UNICEF calls on armed groups, or those responsible, for the immediate and safe release of any children being held hostage in Gaza so that they can be reunited with their families or caregivers. And we call on all parties to protect children from harm, in accordance with international humanitarian law.

“I am also deeply concerned about measures to block electricity and prevent food, fuel and water from entering Gaza, which may put the lives of children at risk.

“It is imperative that all parties refrain from further violence and attacks on civilian infrastructure.

“With the humanitarian situation rapidly deteriorating, humanitarian actors must be able to safely access children and their families with lifesaving services and supplies – wherever they may be.

“I remind all parties that in this war, as in all wars, it is children who suffer first and suffer most.”

 

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About UNICEF
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) works in more than 190 countries and territories to pursue a more equitable world for every child. UNICEF has helped save more children’s lives than any other humanitarian organization, by providing health care and immunizations, safe water and sanitation, nutrition, education, emergency relief and more.

UNICEF USA advances the global mission of UNICEF by rallying the American public to support the world’s most vulnerable children. Together, we are working toward a world that upholds the rights of all children and helps every child thrive. For more information, visit www.unicefusa.org.

For more information please contact:
Jenna Buraczenski, UNICEF USA, (917) 720-1432, jburaczenski@unicefusa.org