UNICEF warns of rising child deaths in Iran war

UNICEF has urged all sides involved in the conflict in Iran to safeguard civilians, highlighting that children are suffering the most from the violence. The agency expressed serious concern about how the ongoing military clashes are affecting children. Reports indicate that around 180 children have been killed, with many others injured. UNICEF noted that 168 girls lost their lives when a strike hit the Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ elementary school in Minab, southern Iran, on February 28 while classes were ongoing. Most victims were reported to be between 7 and 12 years old. Additionally, the organization stated that 12 other children died in separate incidents at schools in five different areas of Iran. They also warned that at least 20 schools and 10 hospitals have sustained damage. On Thursday evening, Reuters reported that U.S. military investigators think it is likely that U.S. forces may have been responsible for the strike. The report included information from two officials who mentioned that the investigation is still ongoing and that “new evidence could emerge that absolves the U.S. of responsibility and points to another responsible party in the incident.” The New York Times also reported on Thursday that it had confirmed video and satellite images showing that the Minab school was hit during U.S.-led attacks near an Iranian naval site, marking it as one of the deadliest events in this military campaign. The building had always been recognized as a civilian school, even though it was near a former military area.