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'Human catastrophe' unfolding in Fallujah, aid agency warns

A "human catastrophe" is unfolding in Fallujah as Iraqi forces continue their fight against IS, aid agencies have warned.

It is estimated that 50,000 civilians are still inside the Iraqi city and humanitarian groups have renewed calls on both sides to open up safe corridors for non-combatants to flee.

The UN have reported people starving to death in the city and being killed for refusing to fight for terror groups.

There are also reports IS were using hundreds of families as human shields during the assault.

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UNICEF: 20,000 children trapped in Fallujah

Shi'ite fighters gather near Falluja, Iraq on Tuesday. Credit: Reuters

An estimated 20,000 children are trapped in the city of Fallujah as Iraqi forces continue their fight against so-called Islamic State, UNICEF has said.

There are warnings of a "human catastrophe" unfolding in the city, with around 50,000 civilians thought to the stuck with a lack of food, medicine, safe drinking water and electricity.

The UN have reported people starving to death in the city and being killed for refusing to fight for terror groups.

Children face the risk of forced recruitment into the fighting, strict procedures for security screening and separation from their families.

Children who are recruited see their lives and futures jeopardized as they are forced to carry and use arms, fighting in an adult war.

UNICEF calls on all parties to protect children inside Fallujah, provide safe passage to those wishing to leave the city and grant safe and secure environments to displaced civilians.

– UNICEF statement
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'Human catastrophe' unfolding in Fallujah, aid agency warns

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