Statement attributable to Meritxell Relaño, UNICEF Representative in Yemen, on attacks near a school

10 January 2017

UNICEF/UN018341/Jahaf

SANA’A, Yemen, 10 January 2017 – “One girl is confirmed dead and four others injured in two attacks this morning near a school in the Nihm district outside the Yemeni capital, Sana’a.

“This is the latest example of how attacks on civilian areas continue to kill and injure 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 has recorded the deaths of nearly 1,400 children. Over 2,140 others have been 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 or damaged, shelter displaced families, or are being used for military purposes.
 
“Schools should 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”.

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