Statement by

Mr. Sattar Ahmadi, First Counselor

Islamic Republic of Iran to the United Nations

Open Debate of the United Nations Security Council

on “Children and Armed Conflict”

New York, 5 July 2023

In the Name of God, the Compassionate, the Merciful.

Mr. President,

I Thank you for organizing this important annual open debate. I also thank the briefers for their contributions.

Mr. President

International humanitarian law requires all parties to armed conflicts to take necessary measures to protect civilians, especially children. This obligation must be fully honored by all parties involved. However, children are repeatedly subjected to a host of egregious violations. They are disproportionately affected by the devastating consequences of armed conflicts and endure unspeakable sufferings.

Meanwhile, children who are refugees, internally displaced, or stateless as a result of conflicts are more likely to endure severe violations and other major abuses, such as recruitment and usage, sexual violence, trafficking, and detention. These flagrant violations not only rob them of their childhood but also hinder their future development, perpetuating cycles of violence and instability.

Mr. President

The latest report by the Secretary-General highlights the ongoing disproportionate impact of armed conflict on children in 2022, with a disturbing rise in the number of grave violations compared to the previous year.

Regrettably, the Middle East region remains a tragic witness to the appalling violation of children, from Afghanistan and Yemen to Palestine.

In Afghanistan, the UN confirmed 1,797 grave violations against 970 children. The de facto authorities should ensure all Afghan children, including girls, have access to education.

Iran, as a neighboring country and host to millions of Afghan people, has provided basic services like education and healthcare to Afghan children living in Iran.

Mr. President

In occupied Palestine territories, the Israeli regime persistently engages in the most systematic and flagrant violations of children's rights in the Middle East.

In 2022, the UN documented a staggering 3,133 grave violations, affecting 1,139 Palestinian children in occupied Palestine territories and the Gaza Strip. Tragically, 54 children lost their lives.

Additionally, the United Nations verified 123 attacks targeting schools and hospitals by Israeli armed forces. These atrocities clearly constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity. The perpetrators responsible for these abhorrent acts must be held accountable and brought to justice for their crimes.

Mr. President

It is imperative for the international community to prioritize the protection of children in armed conflicts. Regardless of the circumstances, their rights, safety, and well-being must always be safeguarded.

Ensuring the protection of children in armed conflicts demands a multifaceted approach that includes several key aspects. Firstly, putting an end to ongoing conflicts and preventing their resurgence is essential. This requires the full and effective compliance of all conflicting parties with international humanitarian law, which sets forth guidelines for the protection of civilians, including children.

Addressing the root causes of conflicts is equally imperative. Children are often coerced into participating in conflicts to provide financial support to their families. Tackling issues such as poverty, limited access to quality education and employment opportunities is crucial in mitigating such grave violations. Furthermore, illegal unilateral sanctions and economic blockades can exacerbate the plight of children in conflict-affected areas and must be addressed.

Mr. President

We strongly reject an unwarranted and unjustified reference made to the Iranian armed forces in the Secretary-General's report (A/77/895-S/2023/363). Iran has consistently fulfilled its commitments under international humanitarian law, and Iran’s anti-terrorist efforts have always been conducted in strict accordance with international law and with full respect for international humanitarian law.

I thank you, Mr. President.