Statement by UNICEF Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa Edouard Beigbeder on child casualties in the West Bank

AMMAN, 12 February 2025 – “Conflict-related violence continues to bring death and fear to civilians, including women and children in the West Bank. On 7 February, a 10-year-old Palestinian boy succumbed to his wounds after reportedly being shot, while two days later, in another tragic event in Nur Shams camp, an eight-months pregnant woman was reportedly shot and killed along with her unborn baby.

“In the first two months of 2025, a total of 13 Palestinian children have been killed in the West Bank. This includes seven children killed since 19 January, following the launch of a large-scale operation in the north of the territory. The casualties include a two-and-a-half-year-old, whose pregnant mother was also injured in the shooting.

“Since 7 October 2023, 195 Palestinian children and three Israeli children have been killed in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem. There has been a 200 per cent increase in the number of Palestinian children killed in the territory over the past 16 months as compared to the 16-month period prior. 

“UNICEF is deeply alarmed by the escalating violence, particularly in Jenin. The increased use of explosive weapons, airstrikes and demolitions in Jenin, Tulkarem, and Tubas Governorates – including in refugee camps and other densely populated areas – has left essential infrastructure severely damaged, disrupting water and electricity supplies. 

“Children and their families in the northern West Bank – especially those in refugee camps – continue to face incredible hardship. Thousands of families have been displaced due to the recent military operations, including in Jenin, Nur Shams, Tulkarem, and al-Faraa Camps.

“Education has been disrupted for students in nearly 100 schools, with teachers and students unable to safely attend classes, further exacerbating psychological and social stress. Many children living in affected areas urgently need mental health and psychosocial support.

“UNICEF condemns all acts of violence against children and calls for the immediate cessation of armed activity across the occupied West Bank. All civilians, including every child without exception, must be protected.

“Humanitarian organizations must have safe and unfettered access to deliver life-saving assistance and protection services to children and their families. The worsening crisis underscores the urgent need for parties to comply with their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law. Critically, a lasting political solution, supported by the international community, is needed to that ensure all children in the region can live in peace and safety.

“UNICEF stands ready to work with partners to address both the immediate and long-term needs of affected children and families in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem.”