Iran Accused of Recruiting Minors for Wartime Roles, Rights Groups Warn
Iran is facing growing international scrutiny following reports that minors are being recruited for wartime-related activities as part of a nationwide mobilisation campaign.
According to information published on March 30, the effort is reportedly being coordinated by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and includes children as young as 12. The initiative is said to involve tasks such as surveillance, neighbourhood patrols and assisting at checkpoints, with sign-ups allegedly taking place in mosques and public areas across Tehran.
The issue gained urgency after reports that an 11-year-old boy was killed in a drone strike while assisting at a checkpoint in the Iranian capital. The incident has intensified concerns among human rights organisations over the potential involvement of minors in military-related operations.
Advocacy groups warn that such practices could breach international humanitarian law, which prohibits the recruitment or use of children under the age of 15 in armed conflict. They argue that even indirect participation in military activities may place children at significant risk.
The situation in Iran reflects a broader global trend, where the use of child soldiers remains a persistent issue in conflict zones. Experts say children, often from vulnerable or economically disadvantaged backgrounds, can be drawn into such roles through coercion or promises of financial support and protection.
Beyond immediate physical danger, specialists highlight the long-term psychological toll. Exposure to violence at a young age has been linked to trauma, developmental challenges and lasting mental health impacts.
Rights organisations are calling for greater monitoring and accountability, urging authorities to ensure the protection of minors and compliance with international law.
