Of particular concern are reports of attacks on educational facilities, including an elementary girls’ school in Minab, Hormozgan Province, in southern Iran. We are devastated by reports that at least 148 children have been killed and many others injured. Attacks on schools ā and the killing and maiming of children – are two of the six grave violations of childrenās rights in conflict and against international law.
Children always pay the highest price in armed conflict and wars; they must be protected at all times. Strikes and the use of explosive weapons in populated areas inevitably put innocent lives at risk.
We echo the urgent call by the UN Secretary-General for an immediate cessation of hostilities. It is critical that all parties exercise maximum restraint and strictly uphold their obligations under International Humanitarian Law. This includes the absolute protection of children, schools, hospitals and civilian infrastructure and all civilians.
Children should never be targets or casualties of war. Ever.
Note to Editors
While Plan International doesnāt have a country office in Iran, it does have a presence in Syria, Lebanon, Jordan and Egypt. It also supports partners to provide vital assistance to populations ā particularly children, girls and young women ā in the occupied Palestinian territory.ā
For further information or interview requests, please contact:
MĆ©lina Froidure, Global Media Officer, Plan International
Email: melina.froidure@planinternational.be
Tel: +33685583513
About Plan International
Plan International is an international development and humanitarian nonprofit that advances childrenās rights and equality for girls. Working together with children, young people, supporters and partners, we strive for a just world, tackling the root causes of challenges children face. We are there from birth until adulthood, and we support children to prepare for and respond to crises and adversity, while particularly focusing on the experiences of girls. With more than 85 years of experience, we work to transform lives in more than 80 countries. We wonāt stop until we are all equal.
