UNICEF Warns of Rising Child Casualties as Violence Escalates in Lebanon.
Amman:
The UNICEF has expressed grave concern over the growing number of child casualties amid escalating hostilities in Lebanon, warning that the intensifying conflict is having a devastating impact on children and families across the country.
In a statement, Edouard Beigbeder said the continued escalation of violence is putting children at extreme risk and forcing hundreds of thousands of people to flee their homes.
Sharp Rise in Child Casualties
According to the latest reports cited by UNICEF, at least 83 children have been killed and 254 injured since March 2 as hostilities intensified across Lebanon.
The figures indicate that more than 10 children have been killed every day over the past week, while an average of around 36 children have been injured daily during the same period.
The agency also noted that over the past 28 months, a total of 329 children had reportedly been killed and 1,632 injured in conflict-related incidents in Lebanon. However, the recent surge in violence has sharply increased the toll, with the number of child deaths rising by 25 per cent in just six days, bringing the total to 412 children killed.
Families Fleeing Amid Intensifying Strikes
UNICEF said that ongoing military strikes across the country are exposing children to severe dangers, with many being killed or injured as violence spreads.
The conflict has also triggered mass displacement, forcing nearly 700,000 people — including around 200,000 children — to flee their homes. Many families are now seeking refuge in temporary shelters where conditions are often overcrowded and cold.
Thousands of displaced children are reportedly living in difficult circumstances, lacking adequate protection and basic services.
Call to Protect Civilians
UNICEF has urged all parties involved in the conflict to protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, including schools, shelters, and hospitals.
The agency stressed that all sides must respect their obligations under international humanitarian law, particularly the rules designed to safeguard children and other vulnerable populations during armed conflict.
Urgent Appeal for De-escalation
Beigbeder called for immediate steps to de-escalate the violence and prevent further harm to children, warning that the humanitarian consequences could worsen if the fighting continues.
UNICEF reiterated that protecting children must remain a priority and urged the international community and parties to the conflict to act quickly to reduce violence and ensure the safety of civilians across Lebanon.
