UNICEF: Iranian Children Are at Serious Risk Amid Protest Crackdown

The global organization UNICEF has expressed serious concern over the deaths and injuries of children and adolescents during the protests in Iran, calling for immediate measures to protect their lives, freedom, and physical and mental health. In a statement, UNICEF said, "We are deeply concerned about ongoing reports of children and adolescents being killed and injured during the current public unrest in Iran. Our thoughts are with the families of the deceased and injured, and we share in their grief." This international body emphasized that children must be protected from any form of violence and threats to their lives. UNICEF also urged Iranian officials, those involved in the protests, communities, and families to take all necessary measures to protect children. The statement noted, "Government forces must refrain from unnecessary or disproportionate use of force, and children should not be placed in situations where their lives or freedoms are at risk." UNICEF also reminded that according to the Convention on the Rights of the Child, the right to life of every child must be respected and protected. So far, there have been numerous reports of children being killed by repressive forces during the Iranian national revolution, and due to the complete internet shutdown, it is impossible to ascertain the number of casualties.