Photo courtesy of Anadolu.
Children across the Middle East have been severely affected by the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran, a United Nations official said on Monday.
Ted Chaiban of UNICEF said the situation has taken a heavy toll on young populations, with thousands already reported killed or injured since hostilities escalated.
He cited data showing more than 2,100 children have been harmed, including fatalities recorded in Iran and Lebanon.
Chaiban also raised concern over the growing number of displaced families as airstrikes and evacuation orders continue across several countries in the region.
In Iran alone, estimates from the UN refugee agency indicated that millions have been forced to flee their homes, a significant portion of them children.
The UNICEF official urged all parties to halt hostilities and ensure the protection of civilians and key infrastructure in accordance with international humanitarian law.
The conflict intensified following a joint military campaign launched late February, which has resulted in widespread casualties and damage.
Iran has since responded with missile and drone attacks targeting multiple locations, further heightening tensions and disrupting regional stability.
