The humanitarian cost of the ongoing military escalation in Iran is rapidly rising, with children bearing the heaviest burden, according to a statement released by UNICEF on Friday. The agency reported that approximately 180 children have been killed and many more injured amid continued strikes across the country.
The deadliest incident occurred on February 28, when a strike hit the Shajareh Tayyebeh Girls’ Elementary School in the southern Iranian city of Minab while classes were in session. According to reports cited by UNICEF, 168 girls between the ages of 7 and 12 were killed in the attack, making it one of the most devastating school-related tragedies in the region in recent years.
In addition to the Minab strike, 12 more children were killed in attacks on schools across five other locations in Iran, highlighting the widening impact of the conflict on educational facilities.
Schools and Hospitals Damaged
UNICEF stated that the escalation of hostilities has also severely damaged critical civilian infrastructure. Reports indicate that at least 20 schools and 10 hospitals across Iran have been damaged during the ongoing military operations. These attacks have disrupted children’s access to education and essential healthcare services, further compounding the humanitarian crisis.
“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 in its statement issued from its regional office in Amman.
International Humanitarian Law Violations
The organization emphasized that children and schools are protected under international humanitarian law, which requires all parties in a conflict to safeguard civilians and civilian infrastructure.
UNICEF urged those involved in the conflict to immediately uphold their obligations under international law and ensure the protection of children and other civilians. The agency warned that continued strikes are exposing children to increasing levels of violence and danger.
Call for Protection of Civilians
As the situation continues to deteriorate, UNICEF said it is closely monitoring developments and stands ready to support humanitarian operations aimed at assisting affected children and families.
The agency reiterated that the lives and wellbeing of children must always be protected, regardless of the circumstances of war.
The escalating conflict in Iran has sparked growing concern among humanitarian organizations worldwide, with fears that continued violence could lead to further civilian casualties and a deepening humanitarian crisis, particularly for children trapped in conflict zones.
