Children Killed in Iran Protests

23 Children Killed, UNICEF Concerned

Human Rights Watch Reports Deaths

At least 23 children have been unlawfully killed by security forces in the ongoing protests in Iran, according to CNN. The United Nations children's agency UNICEF said it remains deeply concerned by reports of children being killed and injured during the protests. The spokesperson for the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights said that the use of lethal force against children is never justified.

Human Rights Watch previously reported the deaths of children including 16-year-old Nika Shakarami. The remaining 13 children were killed in the provinces of Tehran 5, West Azerbaijan 4, and Alborz 1. UNICEF said that it has received reports of children being shot, beaten, and detained. The agency said that it is working with partners to provide support to children and families affected by the violence.

The protests in Iran began in September after the death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old woman who was arrested by the morality police for allegedly wearing her hijab improperly. The protests have since spread to dozens of cities across Iran and have been met with a violent crackdown by security forces. Over 200 people have been killed and thousands have been arrested.