Family for Every Child is deeply alarmed by the severe escalation of violence involving the United States, Israel and Iran, which is placing the lives of millions of children across the Middle East at risk, along with their families and communities.
Children are once again paying the price for decisions taken far beyond their control. As violence intensifies, they face death, displacement, trauma, and the loss of identity and belonging. The systems meant to protect them, schools, healthcare services, and community networks are being destroyed. The long-term consequences are profound, including lasting impacts on mental and physical health, relationships, and child development.
“Children don’t just witness war they grow up in it. It doesn’t only take lives; it steals childhood.” Malak Joudi, Advocacy Officer at Naba’a
Recent reports indicate that an airstrike on a girls’ school in Minab, Iran, resulted in the deaths of more than 160 people, including many children. According to the Iranian Red Crescent Society, thousands of civilian locations across Iran, including dozens of schools and health centres, have been damaged or targeted.
At the same time, the conflict is spilling across borders. In Lebanon, renewed violence is forcing families to flee their homes, leaving children facing growing insecurity and fear. Forced displacement is increasing the number of children undertaking dangerous journeys, with or without their families, in search of safety. Our member in Lebanon, Naba’a, is urgently seeking funds to deliver vital supplies to displaced families in Jezzine, Saida and Mount Lebanon.
The human cost of this escalation is devastating. Each child killed or injured is not collateral damage, but a life cut short and a family forever changed.
“When conflict spans generations, children inherit fear, silence and loss they never chose.”
Stella Duque, Founder of Taller de Vida
Family for Every Child believes that children must never be treated as expendable in war. International humanitarian law is clear: civilians, schools, and health facilities must be protected at all times.
In a recent article in The Guardian, Gordon Brown warned that the international community must stop accepting the routine violation of children’s rights during conflict. His call is a stark reminder that protecting children requires not only humanitarian response, but accountability when international law is breached.
At this critical moment, we urge all parties to prioritise diplomacy and de-escalation. The international community, including governments, the United Nations, and regional bodies must act urgently to uphold international law, protect civilians, and ensure humanitarian access.
Children across the region deserve more than survival. They deserve safety, stability, and the chance to grow up in families and communities free from fear.
Family for Every Child stands in solidarity with civil society organisations, practitioners, and communities across the region who continue despite immense challenges to protect and support children.
