"The recent violence in Syria, including in As-Sweida, Damascus, and Dar'a, has impacted children's lives and wellbeing.
"Several children are reported to have been killed and maimed. This is heartbreaking and unacceptable. Our deepest condolences go to their loved ones.
"UNICEF is concerned about the psychosocial wellbeing of children and their families who have witnessed violence, and fled their homes in fear, disrupting their access to basic essential services and psychosocial support.
"Damage to critical infrastructure, including water, electricity, and communication networks, will continue to disproportionally affect the most vulnerable children, particularly after more than a decade of conflict. It is time for the focus to shift towards Syria's recovery and reconstruction.
"UNICEF echoes the Secretary-General's call for sustained peace and urges all parties to uphold their obligations under international law, including international humanitarian and human rights law. It is imperative that all possible measures are taken to protect civilians, especially children. The children of Syria and the region cannot afford further escalation.
"We urgently call on all parties to provide safe, unrestricted, and unimpeded access to affected children and their families. They have a right to live in peace, safety and with dignity now and always.
"We are closely monitoring the situation and stand ready to scale up life-saving support to children and their families, provided safe and sustained access is guaranteed. Children's lives and well-being must be protected without delay."
