ERBIL — The United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF) has “strongly” condemned the killing of three children among other Iraqi tourists in Wednesday’s bombardment of a summer resort in Kurdistan.

“At least three children were killed and several wounded in Zakho (Iraq), today. This is the devastating proof of the need to stop the use of explosive weapons in populated areas. UNICEF is deeply troubled by the killing of three girls, one 1-year-old, one 12-year-old and one 16-year-old, in the attack today in Dohuk Governorate,” reads a statement by the UNICEF.

“UNICEF condemns all acts of violence against children and joins the families in mourning the killing of their children and wishes those wounded a fast recovery. Being a victim of, witnessing or fearing violence should never be part of any child’s experience,” the statement added.

The organizations emphasized that all children in Iraq deserve to live their lives without the constant threat of violence exacerbated by the use of explosive weapons.

It also called on all parties to fulfil their obligations, under international law, to protect children at all times and without delay.

“The usage of explosive weapons in populated areas has been increasing in Iraq. This attack follows a recent one on 15 June in Sinjar area in Ninewa Governorate, that killed one 12-year-old boy. These attacks put children's lives at stake not only today but threatening the lives of future generations,” the statement continued, reminding that at least 519 children were killed or maimed by explosive ordnance in the past five years. [1]