Statement Attributable to Hanaa Singer, UNICEF Representative in Syria on Killings of Children in Syria

NEW YORK (September 28, 2015) – “As violence increases in Syria, UNICEF once again reiterates its call on all parties to immediately stop indiscriminate attacks in civilian populated areas in accordance with International Humanitarian Law.

“The intensification of violence in the past few weeks has resulted in the killing of many children all over the country.

“In a single incident in the Al-Wa’er neighborhood in the city of Homs last Saturday, 17 children were killed and 23 others were injured.

“What was supposed to be a family gathering in one of the few remaining playgrounds in the neighborhood has turned into a tragedy.

“The use of heavy weapons has become commonplace in Syria and far too often children find themselves in the line of fire”.

About UNICEFThe 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