Mar 24, Kathmandu - As the ongoing conflict in the Middle East enters its fourth week, more than 118 children have lost their lives in Lebanon, and over 200 in Kuwait. UNICEF estimates that an average of 87 children are being killed or injured daily since the conflict began.

UNICEF Deputy Executive Director Ted Chaiban has urgently called on all parties involved to cease hostilities immediately, ensure the protection of civilian infrastructure, and guarantee unimpeded humanitarian access.
The organization warns that prolonged violence could lead to a deepening crisis in the region. UNICEF emphasizes that the death of innocent children undermines public trust and could cause lasting damage to scientific and societal progress.

Nearly a month into the devastating war, the United Nations reports significant disruptions to the global economy, driven by rising prices of oil, fuel, and gas. Airspace closures, transportation blockades, and restrictions on humanitarian and commercial supply routes are hampering access to essential goods and medicines, impacting prices and availability.

Attacks on commercial ships in the Hormuz Sea have jeopardized supply chains, raising concerns over food security and increasing the risk of rising food prices. Developing countries in Asia and Africa are expected to bear the brunt of these disruptions, threatening global food stability.