UNICEF Warns of “Grave Danger” to Children Following Escalation in Middle East.
NEW YORK/AMMAN:
UNICEF has expressed deep alarm over the latest military escalation in the Middle East, warning that millions of children across the region are at heightened risk amid reports of airstrikes and civilian casualties.
In a statement released on Friday, the UN children’s agency described the weekend’s surge in hostilities as “a dangerous moment for millions of children,” citing reports of strikes in Iran and other parts of the region.
According to initial information referenced by UNICEF, several schools were reportedly struck in Iran, including a girls’ school in Minab, located in Hormozgan province in southern Iran. The agency said scores of students are believed to have been killed, with many others injured, though full details are still being verified.
“UNICEF is deeply concerned by reports of strikes in Iran and across the region, illustrating the grave danger for children,” the statement said.
The organization echoed the call of the UN Secretary-General for an immediate cessation of hostilities and urgent de-escalation. It urged all parties involved in the conflict to exercise maximum restraint and adhere to their obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law.
“Targeting civilians and civilian objects, including schools, is a violation of international law,” UNICEF emphasized, underscoring the legal and moral responsibility to protect children and the infrastructure essential to their survival, including education and health services.
UNICEF added that it is actively assessing the evolving situation in coordination with other UN agencies and humanitarian partners. The agency stands ready to scale up assistance to affected children and their families as required and requested.
The latest escalation adds to mounting concerns about the humanitarian consequences of expanding hostilities in a region already facing significant political instability and humanitarian challenges. UNICEF reiterated its commitment to ensuring that children remain protected and that their rights are upheld, even amid intensifying conflict.
