The United Nations’ Special Representatives on Children and Armed Conflict and on Violence Against Children have issued a joint warning that rapidly escalating military operations in Iran and the wider region are having devastating consequences for children.
In a statement released Monday, the envoys said they are “deeply alarmed” by attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure, including schools and hospitals, stressing that such facilities must never be targeted.
The officials joined the UN Secretary-General’s call for an immediate cessation of hostilities, urging all parties involved to exercise maximum restraint and fully comply with international humanitarian and human rights law at all times.
They underscored that children are often the most vulnerable victims of conflict.
“Children always pay the highest price in wars they did not choose,” the statement said.
The representatives emphasized that every child in the region and around the world has the right to live free from fear, with their protection and rights upheld as a primary consideration.
The UN officials reiterated their appeal for urgent action to safeguard civilians, particularly children, as tensions and military operations continue to intensify across the region.
