Press centre

Statement

Statement by Sigrid Kaag, UNICEF Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa, on death of children in air raid on Yemen camp

“The raid left a high number of casualties, mainly women and children. They had sought refuge in the makeshift camp of Al Adi to flee heavy fighting.

“This latest incident is a tragic development in an already alarming situation. More than a month after the latest escalation of fighting,
children affected by the conflict still have no access to safe water, adequate sanitation, health care and protection. Their lives are threatened by disease and violence.

“This is unacceptable.

“Children should not be caught in conflict. Their right to health, protection and safety must be protected at all times.

“UNICEF renews its appeal for all parties in the conflict to abide by their obligations under international law and to ensure that children remain out of harm’s way and are given the assistance they urgently need.”

For further information, please contact:
Abdel-Rahman Ghandour, UNICEF Regional Office for the Middle East and North Africa,
Tel + 962 79 700 4567,
E-mail: arghandour@unicef.org

Patrick McCormick, UNICEF NY, 
Tel + 1 212 326 7426; 
E-mail: pmccormick@unicef.org