New York – The Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict, Leila Zerrougui, condemns in the strongest terms the killing of at least twenty one children and the injuring of many more during Israel’s ongoing military operation in the Gaza strip.
She is very concerned by the disproportionate use of force by Israel and reminds the Government of its obligations under international law to protect children from harm.
The Special Representative also condemns the multiple indiscriminate rocket attacks from Gaza in to civilian areas in Israel.
“We are facing a crisis for the protection of children,” said Leila Zerrougui. “I urge all parties to show maximum restraint to prevent additional child casualties.”
She is extremely concerned by the escalation of violence. These latest child casualties, combined with earlier kidnappings and killings of Israeli and Palestinian children in the West Bank, are indications of a worrisome trend where children have become not only victims, but the face of the conflict.
The Special Representative extends her condolences to the families of all victims.
For additional information, please contact:
Stephanie Tremblay
Communications Officer
Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict
Tel: 1 212 963 8285
Mobile: 1 917 288 5791
tremblay@un.org
Follow us on Twitter and facebook:
http://www.twitter.com/childreninwar
https://www.facebook.com/childrenandarmedconflict
