Concerns are mounting over the alleged involvement of children in security operations in Iran, as reports from witnesses and human rights groups suggest minors are being used in frontline support roles during the ongoing conflict.
Truth Live News International learnt from BBC World News that, the issue gained attention following the reported death of an 11-year-old boy, identified as Alireza Jafari, who was said to have been assisting at a security checkpoint in Tehran alongside his father when both were killed in an air strike earlier this month.
According to local accounts, the boy had accompanied his father due to a shortage of personnel at the checkpoint. His death has intensified scrutiny of a broader recruitment initiative allegedly targeting young volunteers.
Officials linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) have reportedly indicated that individuals as young as 12 may be enlisted under a programme associated with the Basij militia, a paramilitary group often deployed for internal security operations.
Eyewitnesses in Tehran and other cities, including Karaj and Rasht, claim they have seen teenagers manning checkpoints, in some cases carrying weapons and assisting in vehicle searches. Due to security concerns, many of these witnesses spoke anonymously.
Residents described scenes of young individuals dressed in military-style clothing, stationed alongside adult forces, particularly following recent air strikes. Some accounts suggest these youths were actively involved in stopping and inspecting vehicles.
Human rights organisations have strongly criticised the development. The Human Rights Watch described the recruitment of children for such roles as a serious violation of international law, especially when involving individuals under the age of 15.
Legal experts have also warned that deploying minors in security or military capacities poses significant risks. Analysts note that children lack the training and judgment required for high-pressure environments, increasing the likelihood of unintended escalation and harm to civilians.
Observers say the situation may reflect broader challenges facing authorities in mobilising sufficient adult personnel, raising questions about the sustainability and ethics of current security strategies.
As the conflict continues, the reported use of minors in operational roles is expected to remain a major point of international concern.
