UNICEF calls for the protection of children and adolescents amid public unrest in Iran

Statement by UNICEF Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa Edouard Beigbeder

AMMAN, 11 January 2026 – “We are extremely concerned by continuing reports of children and adolescents being killed and injured amid the ongoing public unrest in Iran. Our thoughts are with the families of those who have been killed and injured, and we share their grief.

“UNICEF calls for the protection of all children from all forms of violence and harm.  They must be safeguarded from any actions that endanger their lives, freedom, or mental and physical well-being.

“The Iranian authorities, those involved in the protests, communities, and families, should take every measure to protect children. Security forces must refrain from using unnecessary or disproportionate force, and children should not be in settings that put them in danger or deprive them of their liberty.

“In accordance with the Convention on the Rights of the Child, every child’s right to life must be respected and safeguarded.”

###

Notes to Editors:

For more information, please contact:  

UNICEF UK Media team at [email protected] or 0208 375 6030.

About UNICEF

UNICEF works in some of the world’s toughest places, to reach the world’s most disadvantaged children. Across more than 190 countries and territories, we work for every child, everywhere, to build a better world for everyone.

The UK Committee for UNICEF (UNICEF UK) raises funds for UNICEF’s emergency and development work for children. We also promote and protect children’s rights in the UK and internationally. We are a UK charity, entirely funded by supporters.

United Kingdom Committee for UNICEF (UNICEF UK), Registered Charity No. 1072612 (England & Wales), SC043677 (Scotland).

For more information visit unicef.org.uk.

Follow UNICEF UK on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube.