Statement attributable to Meritxell Relaño, UNICEF Representative in Yemen, on attacks near a school
2017-01-11
© UNICEF/UN018341/Jahaf
SANA’A, Yemen/HONG KONG, 11 January 2017 –“One child was confirmed killed and four others were injured when two attacks hit near the al-Falah school in the Nihm district outside the capital, Sana’a.
“Attacks on civilian areas continue to kill and injure scores of 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 verified that nearly 1,400 children were killed and over 2,140 were 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, damaged, shelter displaced families or are being used for military purposes.
“Schools have to 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”.