Child suicide attacks ‘must stop’ (Human Rights Watch 2004)
An international human rights group has called on Palestinian militants to stop using children in suicide bombings and military attacks.
Human Rights Watch made the call after a 16-year-old bomber blew himself up in a Tel Aviv marketplace on Monday, killing three Israeli civilians.
The New York-based group claimed at least 10 bombers aged under 18 have attacked Israel in the past four years.
The group behind Monday’s attack has said it does not recruit children.
Palestinian armed groups must clearly and publicly condemn all use of children under the age of 18
Jo Becker, Human Rights Watch
International law defines a child as any person under the age of 18.
“Any attack on civilians is prohibited by international law, but using children for suicide attacks is particularly egregious,” said Jo Becker, advocacy director for children’s rights at Human Rights Watch.
“Palestinian armed groups must clearly and publicly condemn all use of children under the age of 18 for military activities, and make sure these policies are carried out.”