Iran's 12-year-olds to join war

In a global stir, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has set the minimum age for children to participate in various war-related support and security activities at 12. A senior IRGC official made the announcement in a statement carried by the country's state media.

The recruitment process is being carried out under a special initiative called 'For Iran'. Through this program, minors will be included in various important military and security tasks, including patrol teams, checkpoints and logistics.

He said, "We have set the minimum age at 12 years due to the decreasing age of those who come forward as volunteers and based on their interest." He added that 12- and 13-year-olds will now be able to participate in these activities according to their wishes.

Iran's announcement has raised new concerns among child rights activists around the world. Earlier in 2022, children in military uniforms were seen patrolling the streets during nationwide protests over the death of Mahsa Amini, which drew international criticism.

In addition, the Center for Human Rights in Iran alleged that more than 200 children were killed by security forces during the crackdown on protests in 2016.

Human rights organizations Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch have long alleged that Iranian authorities are violating international law and the Convention on the Rights of the Child by detaining, torturing, and using lethal force to suppress protests against children.