Presenter tells U.N. Security Council reports say school strike in Binabe may have killed “possibly dozens of children”

The Chair called the meeting to order. A presenter addressing the United Nations Security Council said the session comes "at a moment of exceptional relevance," noting global armed conflict is at levels not seen since World War II.

"The number of civilians killed in these conflicts is the highest in decades," the presenter said, adding that "when conflicts erupt, children are among those most severely affected." The presenter cited reports from Iran alleging that a strike hit an elementary school in the town of Binabe and said the reports indicate the deaths of "possibly dozens of children." The presenter added that "United States authorities have announced they are looking into these reports."

The presenter framed the remarks as part of a broader appeal for preventive action: "The most effective way to protect children from conflict is to prevent and end wars," the presenter said, and "building peace is at the heart of what the United Nations does." The presenter urged council members and states to "work together toward this goal."

The remarks as delivered were primarily an appeal and a report of allegations; the presenter pointed to reports and announced investigations but did not offer independent verification of casualties or assign responsibility for the alleged strike. The presenter concluded by calling for collective diplomatic and humanitarian steps to protect civilians and children caught in conflict.