At least 20 children in Gaza have been killed since 1 June, adding to the 121 Israeli and 734 Palestinian children killed since September 2000. In the recent fighting between Israel and Hezbollah, more than 200 civilians have died and over 400 have been injured – approximately 30% of whom are children.
World Vision warned the violence and destruction of infrastructure in Lebanon and Palestine had left children vulnerable to potential outbreaks of disease and increased levels of malnutrition.
"In Gaza, our staff confirm reports from UNICEF and other international bodies that describe the severe psychological and physical stress children are experiencing. We are seriously concerned that the destruction of infrastructure and impediments on freedom of movement of goods and people in and out of Gaza could lead to outbreaks of water-borne and other diseases,” said Allyn Dhynes, Advocacy, Peacebuilding and Communications Manager for World Vision Jerusalem/West Bank/Gaza.
It also warned that children in Palestine, Lebanon and Israel were facing potential physical threats and lasting psychological trauma as a result of the conflict.
"World Vision has worked in the Middle East for more than 30 years and we have seen time and again the damage such conflict does to the youngest civilians," said Ruba Khoury, Head of Programmes for World Vision Lebanon.
"Those who escape physical injuries or maiming often do not escape psychological and emotional trauma. No child, whether living in Israel, Lebanon or Palestine, should have their rights to protection ignored – especially in times of war."
