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The conflict in Lebanon, Israel and Gaza has resulted in a humanitarian and political crisis that threatens to engulf the entire region.
An estimated one half million civilians have been displaced, and more than 800 civilians have been killed.
At least 30% of the victims are children!
Many more are without access to basic lifesaving services, including food, water, health care and shelter. There is widespread destruction of civilian infrastructure, including hospitals, schools and road networks.
The Fourth Geneva Convention states that all parties to the conflict have obligations to distinguish between civilians and combatants and to refrain from attacks that harm the civilian population.
War Child calls on all parties to the conflict to agree to an immediate ceasefire and to resolve the crisis through peaceful means.
War Child reminds all parties to the conflict of their obligation to protect the lives of civilians, especially children, in accordance with International Humanitarian Law and to ensure full and unfettered humanitarian access.
War Child Holland will of course continue supporting the partners in Israel and the Paletinian Territories. Despite the continuing violence both the organisations are committing themselves evryday for a peaceful future for the children in this region.
Other wars
As you read this, over 30 wars and conflicts rage around the world. Some fill our TV screens with appalling images of distress, emphasising war’s brutalising effect on man. However, many of these wars still go unreported, often due to political expediency or lack of interest.
Children are amongst the first casualties of any armed conflict, always the most vulnerable and innocent of victims. In the last decade alone 1.5 million children have died in wars. Four million have been disabled and a further 10 million traumatised.
The severe psychological wounds that war inflicts on children can scar them for life, crippling the very generations that must one day rebuild their devastated countries. For the future peace of the world we must do everything in our power to help these war children.
WAR CHILD
War Child is an independent and politically neutral humanitarian organisation that develops programs for children regardless of religious, ethnical or social background. The organisation helps children who are the victim of armed conflict.
Background information about Children in Conflict
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International law and United Nations
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