Amman, March 9 -- UNICEF on Monday decried the rise in child casualties amid rising hostilities in Lebanon and called on all parties to protect civilians and infrastructure. It urged immediate efforts to de-escalate the situation and prevent further harm to children.

The statement by UNICEF Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa, Edouard Beigbeder, highlighted how the continuous escalation of hostilities in Lebanon and the devastating toll it is taking on children are gravely concerning.

"According to the latest reports, at least 83 children have been killed and 254 wounded since 2 March, as hostilities have intensified. On average, more than 10 children have been killed every day across Lebanon over the past week, with ...