UNICEF Reports 500,000 Children in Lebanon Cannot Attend School Due to Conflict

UNICEF has reported that 500,000 children in Lebanon are unable to attend school amid ongoing conflict. This situation is exacerbated by Israeli airstrikes, severe food insecurity, and economic instability. Despite a ceasefire, many children remain out of school, highlighting the urgent need for humanitarian assistance.

UNICEF has stated that approximately 500,000 children in Lebanon are currently unable to attend school due to the ongoing conflict and socioeconomic difficulties. During a press briefing in Geneva, Ettie Higgins, UNICEF’s deputy representative in Lebanon, emphasized the profound impact that Israel’s assaults are having on the population, especially the children experiencing severe trauma.

In areas such as Baalbek and the Bekaa Valley, children continue to suffer immensely despite the recent ceasefire declaration. These regions have faced numerous Israeli airstrikes, exacerbating the risk of physical harm and food scarcity among young children.

“More than half of children under the age of 2 in the eastern regions of Lebanon are experiencing severe food insecurity. This is more than double compared to a year ago,” Higgins noted, reflecting the deteriorating conditions for families.

The humanitarian crisis is further intensified by economic instability, ongoing teacher strikes, and the lasting impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which have all significantly weakened the education system. Despite the ceasefire in November, over 25% of children were still out of school last month according to UNICEF’s report.

In summary, UNICEF’s recent report highlights the critical situation in Lebanon, where ongoing violence and socioeconomic challenges have left half a million children out of school. With most of these children facing severe food insecurity, the compounded effects of economic instability and the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic have weakened the educational infrastructure even further. There is an urgent need for international support to alleviate the suffering of these vulnerable children.

Original Source: www.aa.com.tr