JPS Statement:  JPS Statement on Safety and Well-being of Infants and Children in Israel and Palestine

Children, most vulnerable in armed conflicts, should be protected under international humanitarian law. Their safety and well-being must consistently take precedence under the Convention on the Rights of the Child. Regrettably, the escalation of hostilities in the Middle East has resulted in tremendous violence against infants and children, leading to devastating situations. Countless children have been killed, injured, abducted and taken hostage, relocated, and cut off from essential supplies.

Japan Pediatric Society (JPS) is deeply distressed by their enormous suffering and expresses serious concerns for the safety and well-being of victimized infants and children. The protection and care of infants and children should be prioritized and ensured through all feasible measures under any circumstances. JPS urgently calls on all parties involved in the conflict and the international community to establish an immediate humanitarian ceasefire. Additionally, we advocate for the unconditional release of abducted infants and children, thereby putting an end to indiscriminate violence against them.

Humanitarian aid efforts should secure supplies and environments necessary for the survival, growth, and development of infants and children. Additionally, appropriate medical care must be provided to wounded and sick infants and children. Even if not physically hurt or ill, immature infants and children are often psychologically traumatized, requiring special attention to their internal emotions, such as grief, fear, and anxiety.

JPS extends our sincere support to infants and children in distress and advocates for fair, equal, and dignified care for all infants and children. We remain committed to the collective efforts aimed at alleviating the difficulty of these vulnerable young lives.

Board of Directors, Japan Pediatric Society