UNICEF reports 1,317 children killed or injured in Lebanon

UNICEF has released a report titled ‘A Continuing Nightmare,’ detailing the severe impact of the escalating conflict in Lebanon on children. According to the organization, 261 children have been killed and 1,056 injured since the escalation began in March.

The report highlights significant damage to the education sector, noting that approximately 436 schools have been damaged or destroyed, placing nearly 100,000 children at risk of losing access to education. Additionally, 86 teachers have been killed or injured.

Economic and humanitarian pressures are further straining families. UNICEF reports that four out of five families in Lebanon struggle to meet basic needs. Specifically, 22% of surveyed families reported children went hungry in the two weeks prior to the report, and 31% stated they were unable to provide necessary healthcare due to costs.

Psychological distress is also widespread, with an estimated 770,000 children suffering from psychological distress over the last six months. UNICEF representative Marc-Olivier Corsi warned that children are carrying burdens ‘no child should have to bear,’ and called for urgent action to ensure protection, education, and healthcare to prevent long-term damage to an entire generation.