JAKARTA - At least 200 children have been killed in Lebanon as a result of the ongoing Israeli attacks in the country since March 2, UNICEF said on Thursday.
"Children in Lebanon continue to be the main targets of violence, displacement, and exposure to ongoing traumatic events," the UN organization said in a statement, launching Anadolu (14/5).
Furthermore, UNICEF explained that at least 59 children were killed or injured in Lebanon over the past week despite a ceasefire agreement that has been in effect since April 17.
According to the organization, 23 children have been killed and 93 others injured since April 17, describing the figures as "a stark reminder of the ongoing risks that children continue to face."
The agency said the overall death toll among children since March 2 has reached 200 dead and 806 injured, equivalent to nearly 14 children killed or injured every day.
"Children are killed and injured when they should be going back to class, playing with friends, and recovering from months of fear and chaos," UNICEF said.
The UN agency said that beyond the direct impact of bombs and airstrikes, an estimated 770,000 children are experiencing "increased distress" due to repeated exposure to violence, loss, and displacement.
UNICEF warns that the lack of mental health services and psychosocial support in a safe and stable environment can put these children at serious risk of chronic or lifelong mental health problems.
"Almost a month ago, an agreement was reached to silence the guns and stop the violence. The reality is very different. The ongoing attacks are killing and injuring children, deepening their exposure to trauma and leaving behind devastating consequences that can last a lifetime," said UNICEF Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa Edouard Beigbeder.
The agency called on all parties to protect children, abide by international humanitarian law, and take all necessary measures to ensure the continuation of the ceasefire.
Since March 2, Israeli attacks in Lebanon have killed more than 2,896 people, injured more than 8,824 people, and displaced more than 1.6 million people, about a fifth of the country's population, according to Lebanese officials.
The Israeli army continues to carry out daily attacks in Lebanon and exchanges fire with Hezbollah despite the ceasefire that was announced on April 17 and then extended until May 17.
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