New york: The State of Qatar expressed deep concern over the findings of the United Nations Secretary-General's report on children and armed conflict, which indicated that violations committed against children in conflict zones have reached unprecedented levels, including killing and maiming, attacks on schools and hospitals, and the denial of humanitarian access.
According to Qatar News Agency, this statement was delivered by HE Permanent Representative of the State of Qatar to the United Nations Sheikha Alya Ahmed bin Saif Al-Thani during the UN Security Council open debate on children and armed conflict titled "Reasserting international legal protections for children in armed conflict: strengthening the protection of education and the prevention of grave violations," held at United Nations Headquarters in New York.
Her Excellency emphasized Qatar's strong condemnation of the grave violations against children in the Occupied Palestinian Territory by the Israeli occupation, including the use of explosive weapons in populated areas and ongoing violations in the Gaza Strip. These actions have resulted in numerous child casualties and attacks on schools and hospitals as documented in the United Nations Secretary-General's report.
The statement also addressed Qatar's concern over the report's findings on the increase in attacks by Israeli settlers and the subsequent grave violations against Palestinian children. Sheikha Alya praised the pivotal role of the Office of the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict in protecting children in conflict areas and reaffirmed Qatar's commitment to strengthening its partnership with the office.
Her Excellency highlighted that Qatar hosts the Analysis and Outreach Hub of the Office of the Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict, which plays a crucial role in supporting international efforts to protect children affected by armed conflicts.
The Permanent Representative stressed Qatar's dedication to promoting and protecting children's right to education, especially in conflict-affected regions. This commitment is reflected in the efforts of HH Chairperson of Education Above All Foundation Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, whose initiatives have significantly impacted millions of children worldwide.
Sheikha Alya also noted Qatar's anticipation of the seventh anniversary of the International Day to Protect Education from Attack. Qatar will host an international event on September 9 titled "Can Education Survive Attack? The Resilience of Human Communities," aimed at bolstering international efforts to protect education in conflict zones.
In concluding her statement, Her Excellency reaffirmed Qatar's commitment to supporting international efforts to ensure the protection of children in armed conflict and to promoting respect for international law and humanitarian law in a manner that safeguards children's rights and dignity.