Statement by UNICEF on impact of escalating hostilities on children in Tripoli, Libya

TRIPOLI, 14 May 2025 - The rapid escalation of violence over the past two days in and around Tripoli threatens to impact nearly half a million children.

Heavy clashes have erupted across several neighbourhoods, reportedly resulting in civilian casualties, including reports of at least one child injured and in critical condition. Civilian infrastructure has been caught in the crossfire, and children and families were trapped in conflict-affected areas.

UNICEF has received reports that children, families, and medical staff were stranded in hospitals for hours, including inside Al Jalaa Children Hospital, as fighting closed in. For several hours, emergency services were unable to access the facility to provide the needed help.

Families are reporting extreme distress among their children due to the violence.

UNICEF calls on all parties to uphold their obligations under international humanitarian law and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child to protect children, and the infrastructure they rely on. We call for a sustained cessation of hostilities to ensure the safety and well-being of every child.