STATEMENT: Children in Syria Losing Their Futures as Violence Escalates

AMMAN (Sept. 10, 2024)—At least 24 people, including civilians, have been killed in the latest strikes in Syria, according to reports. In response, Rasha Muhrez, Save the Children Response Director in Syria, said:

“Children are paying the highest price for the ongoing conflict in Syria with the latest series of strikes across southern and central Syria—in which at least 24 people including civilians were reportedly killed—again highlighting the risks to their lives, their futures and their families.

“Recent attacks across Syria have killed and injured children, destroyed vital civilian infrastructure like electricity and water stations, schools and hospitals. Whether it’s due to regional escalations, tensions across Syria’s northern border, or the ongoing conflict inside the country—children are suffering the most.

“Services have already collapsed after 14 years of conflict and basic systems have limited capacity to respond to shocks. Syrians seek a return to some sense of normalcy and a better future for their children.

“The humanitarian crisis in Syria is at a record levels. Over 16 million people—almost half of them children—need urgent assistance, the highest figure since Syria’s conflict began. This violence is only worsening an already disastrous crisis.  

“International humanitarian law demands that all parties to the conflict ensure the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure. The continued escalation of violence only deepens the crisis for Syria’s most vulnerable, who are already enduring unimaginable hardship. We call on all involved to prioritize the safety of civilians.”

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