UNICEF Urges Accelerated Mine Clearance in Yemen After Children's Deaths

UNICEF has called for urgent action to enhance the protection of children in Yemen from the dangers of landmines and explosive remnants of war, following the deaths of five children and the injury of seven others in an explosion in the Al Dhale'e governorate.

The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) expressed deep sorrow over reports of five children killed and seven injured while collecting scrap metal in the village of Al-Ribei, Al Dhale'e governorate, due to the detonation of a war remnant. The organization highlighted that this incident underscores the persistent danger posed by mines and unexploded ordnance to civilian lives, particularly children.

UNICEF emphasized that children in Yemen continue to pay a heavy price for the conflict, stating that "no child should lose their life, be injured, or live in fear due to the deadly remnants of war." The agency noted the widespread presence of explosives in many areas.

The incident serves as a grim reminder of the ongoing threat from mines and explosive remnants of war, even years after the conflict began. UNICEF pointed out that repeated displacement and the presence of explosives near homes, schools, playgrounds, and workplaces increase children's exposure to fatal accidents and severe injuries.

The organization urged intensified efforts for mine and unexploded ordnance clearance, expanded risk awareness programs within local communities, and the provision of comprehensive medical and psychosocial care, along with sustained support for survivors and victims' families. UNICEF affirmed that protecting children from war remnants is a critical humanitarian priority, and every child has the right to live and grow in a safe environment free from danger.

The Ministry of Human Rights in the Yemeni government attributed responsibility for the incident to the Houthi militia, stating it adds to a series of incidents caused by mines and war remnants that have claimed the lives of thousands of civilians across various regions of the country.