Save the Children Australia is calling for the Australian Government to pledge much needed humanitarian funding to the Middle East conflict, that matches or exceeds its defence investment.
The escalating conflict in the Middle East has triggered a rapidly expanding crisis, leaving children's lives and rights hanging in the balance. Hundreds of children have already paid the heaviest price with at least 200 killed in Iran, 91 in Lebanon, four in Israel, and one in Kuwait. Millions more have been ripped from their homes, schools and sense of safety.
In response to the recent escalation of tensions and violence in the Middle East, Australia is spending millions on deploying military personnel, aircraft and surface to air missiles.
Save the Children Australia CEO Mat Tinkler argues that if Australia has the resources and capacity to deploy military assets to the region, it should also have the resources and capacity to send much needed additional humanitarian support.
"Australia's role in this conflict must not ignore the human cost of war, especially for children," he said.
"At least 1,100 children have already been killed or injured in this conflict, with millions continuing to live with the terror of bombs falling from their skies. Even if this conflict was to stop today, these children will live with lifelong trauma."
Children face disproportionate harm during conflict due to their physical, developmental and social vulnerabilities. They risk facing displacement, missing out on education, losing access to essential healthcare and protection, or worse, getting injured or killed or losing their loved ones. They are also extremely vulnerable to the impact of explosive weapons when used in populated areas.
The impacts are immediate but also long-lasting, affecting their health, education and wellbeing for years after violence ends.
"Protecting children now and into their futures must be a priority for our government. Australia must step up efforts to not only protect children across the region from this escalating violence but also efforts to prevent future conflict and violence to safeguard children's futures," Mr Tinkler said.
