By Fanuel Chinowaita
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) says about 180 children have reportedly been killed amid escalating military hostilities in Iran, raising alarm over the devastating impact of the conflict on young lives.
In a statement issued from Amman yesterday, UNICEF said it is “deeply concerned about the deadly impact the ongoing military escalation in Iran is having on children.”
“Approximately 180 children have reportedly been killed and many more injured,” the organisation said.
According to UNICEF, 168 girls died on 28 February when a strike hit the Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ elementary school in Minab, southern Iran, while classes were in session.
“Among the casualties are 168 girls killed when a strike hit the Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ elementary school in Minab… while classes were in session,” UNICEF said, noting that most of the victims were schoolchildren aged between 7 and 12 years.
The organisation added that another 12 children were killed in attacks on other schools across five different locations in the country.
“These child casualties are a stark reminder of the brutality of war and violence on children, which impacts families and communities for generations,” UNICEF said.
The agency stressed that schools and children are protected under international humanitarian law.
“Children and schools are protected under International Humanitarian Law and must be places of safety,” the organisation said.
UNICEF also warned that continued strikes are damaging key civilian infrastructure, further endangering children.
“At least 20 schools and 10 hospitals have reportedly been damaged in Iran, disrupting children’s access to education and critical health services,” the agency said.
The organisation urged all parties involved in the conflict to respect international law and safeguard civilians.
“UNICEF urgently calls on all parties to uphold their obligations under international law, and to ensure the protection of civilians.”
It added that it will continue monitoring developments while supporting humanitarian efforts to assist affected children and families.