Save the Children has called for urgent action to protect children and civilian infrastructure amid escalating violence in the Middle East, particularly in Iran. Reports indicate that more than 100 children were killed in recent strikes on two schools in Iran, prompting the child rights organization to demand an immediate end to hostilities to safeguard children’s lives and well-being. Save the Children is stressing the importance of adhering to international humanitarian and human rights law, particularly regarding the protection of civilians, including schools and hospitals, from attack.
The organization highlights the significant risks posed by explosive weapons used in populated areas, which can cause severe harm to civilians, especially children. Inger Ashing, the CEO of Save the Children International, condemned the ongoing violence, emphasizing that children should never be caught in conflict and that civilian infrastructure must remain off-limits. She reaffirmed that wars have rules and that all parties must respect these laws to prevent harm to children and their communities.
Ashing further expressed grave concern over the broader impacts of war on children, including displacement, interrupted education, and a lack of access to healthcare and protection. She urged immediate de-escalation of violence in Iran and the wider region, calling on all parties to uphold their obligations under international law and protect civilians, particularly children.
As the world’s largest independent child rights organization, Save the Children works in over 110 countries, striving to save and improve children’s lives. However, the organization is not active in Iran.
