Support children affected by crisis in the Middle East and around the world

Across the region, the places where children learn, live and play have come under attack. More than 100 children have been killed in strikes on two schools in Iran. Israeli airstrikes in Beirut southern suburbs, Southern and Eastern Lebanon have killed and injured at least 200 people. Forced displacement orders are now uprooting families from their homes across eastern and southern Lebanon. The recent escalation has also compounded the situation for children and families in Gaza and the West Bank. The Government of Israel announced the closure of all crossings into the Gaza Strip, reimposing a total siege on the territory. All children across the region are now facing the terrifying prospect of an expansive war on a regional scale.

We've already released $2 million from the fund to countries across the region to scale up responses and carry out contingency planning, as well as meet existing needs: Lebanon ($200,000), Syria ($500,000), Iraq ($200,000), Yemen ($600,000), Afghanistan ($300,000) and Pakistan ($200,000). We’re also pivoting flexible funding to support affected families in Türkiye, and likely other countries, as the knock-on impacts of this war are felt across the region. For example:

• In Lebanon, we're distributing baby hygiene kits, mattresses, blankets & other essential items to families impacted by these latest strikes. We’re also preparing to deliver water and sanitation support, set up safe shelters, and provide child protection and education.

• In Gaza, we’re continuing to provide shelter, food, medical care for families affected by conflict.

While the future is unclear, we know that children across the region will need food, shelter, healthcare, protection and education.

Any support you can give would help children in the region, as well as other disasters around the world. Thank you for your support and solidarity.