690 children injured in Lebanon in last six weeks

More than 690 children have reportedly been injured in Lebanon as the conflict has dramatically escalated in recent weeks.

Since 20 August, the number of children injured in the conflict has increased drastically, bringing the total number injured in the last year to 890 as of 2 October, according to the Lebanese Ministry of Public Health.

“This disastrous conflict is exacting a tremendous toll on children,” said UNICEF Regional Director Adele Khodr. “Doctors tell us of treating children who are bloodied, bruised, and broken, suffering both physically and mentally. Many are experiencing anxiety, flashbacks, and nightmares related to explosions. No child should be subjected to such horrific situations.”

The most common injuries reportedly recorded among children include concussions and traumatic brain injuries from the impact of blasts, shrapnel wounds and limb injuries. Hearing loss caused by explosions isalso common.

In the last year at least 127 children have been killed, with more than 100 of these deaths occurring in the past 11 days alone,according to the Lebanese Ministry of Public Health.

“These are not mere numbers. They are innocent children, who had dreams and a future just like anyone else,” adds Khodr.