Statement by Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management Christos Stylianides on deadly attacks on schools across Syria

Deadly attacks on schools yesterday and today across Syria in Idlib, Western Aleppo and Douma which have left more than 25 children and several teachers dead are totally unacceptable.

At this sad time of mourning, my first thoughts and condolences are with those who lost their beloved sons and daughters, mothers and fathers.

The attack on a school in Syria's north-western province of Idlib yesterday was the deadliest since the beginning of this terrible conflict more than five year ago. But sadly, this week alone, attacks have hit already five different schools across the country.

There cannot be any justification or impunity for such acts. Those responsible should be brought to justice

Civilians and civilian infrastructure, like schools and hospitals are meant to be protected byInternational Humanitarian Law. Sadly, this crucial law is being violated repeatedly in Syria on an unprecedented scale.

I urge all parties to the conflict to ensure that the basic principles of humanity are respected and innocent lives are spared from the hostilities. This conflict has already brought enough suffering to the Syrian people.

The EU remains committed to supporting the Syrian people with lifesaving humanitarian assistance.

STATEMENT/16/3571