UNICEF has expressed deep concern over the escalating military confrontation in the Middle East, warning that millions of children face grave risks as hostilities intensify.
In a statement issued following reports of widespread strikes in Iran and neighbouring regions, UNICEF highlighted alarming claims that schools had been hit, including a girls’ school in Minab in Hormozgan province. According to local reports, scores of students were killed and many others injured, though independent verification remains limited.
Call for immediate de-escalation
UNICEF echoed the appeal of the UN Secretary-General for an immediate cessation of hostilities and de-escalation. The agency urged all parties to exercise maximum restraint and to uphold obligations under international humanitarian and human rights law.
“Targeting civilians and civilian objects, including schools, is a violation of international law,” the statement emphasised, underscoring the need to protect children and essential services they depend on for survival.
Humanitarian response being assessed
UNICEF said it is working alongside other United Nations agencies and humanitarian partners to assess the rapidly evolving situation. The organisation stands ready to scale up support for affected children and families as required.
The warning comes amid reports of rising civilian casualties across multiple countries in the region, as the conflict triggered by recent US-Israel strikes on Iran continues to widen.
Humanitarian agencies caution that prolonged fighting could severely disrupt education, healthcare and access to clean water — services already strained in parts of the region — placing vulnerable children at heightened risk.