26.03.2026 13:41
An official affiliated with the Revolutionary Guards in Iran announced that the minimum age for participation in war-related support missions has been lowered to 12. It was stated that the implementation, which includes patrols, checkpoints, and logistical activities, was initiated due to demand from young people. However, this step has raised discussions about violations of the Convention on the Rights of the Child to which Iran is a party.
As the effects of war deepen in the Middle East, a statement from Iran has sparked debate in the international community. An official from the Iranian Revolutionary Guards announced that the minimum age for participation in support missions related to the war has been lowered to 12.
According to statements in Iranian state media, Rahim Nadali, one of the cultural officials of the Revolutionary Guards in Tehran, stated that young people are being involved in various support activities as part of an initiative called "For Iran." It was expressed that these activities include elements such as patrol duties, serving at checkpoints, and logistical support.
"WE HAVE LOWERED THE MINIMUM AGE TO 12"
Nadali claimed that the average age of those wishing to participate in the program has decreased and that there is a strong demand from young people, saying, "The age of applicants has dropped, and since they want to participate, we have lowered the minimum age to 12. Those who are 12 and 13 years old can also participate if they wish." These statements were reflected to the public as part of the broadcasts made in state media regarding the war process in Iran.
CONTROVERSIAL FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF INTERNATIONAL LAW
However, this decision has also raised controversy from the perspective of international law. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, to which Iran is a party, prohibits the use of children in military activities. Therefore, experts point out that this practice may contradict international obligations.
US-ISRAEL'S ATTACKS ON IRAN
On February 28, Israel and the US launched a military attack on Iran while negotiations continued between the Tehran and Washington administrations. Iran responded with attacks on targets it identified in several regional countries, including Qatar, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Bahrain, where US bases are located, in addition to Israel.
In the US-Israel attacks, many high-ranking officials, including Iranian leader Ali Khamenei, were killed. According to Iranian officials, the death toll from the US-Israel attacks has exceeded 1,348, and the number of injured has surpassed 17,000.