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11-Year-Old Killed in Drone Strike Amid Armed Child Soldiers

4/2/2026

39 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Alireza Jafari, 11, was killed in a drone strike at a Tehran security checkpoint on March 11, while with his father.
Eyewitnesses report armed children at checkpoints in Tehran and nearby cities.
Human Rights Watch condemned the practice, saying it violates children's rights and constitutes a war crime when involving those under 15.
Experts say use of children in military roles reflects Iranian government's desperation amid declining support.

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Story summary

Alireza Jafari, 11, was killed in a drone strike at a Tehran security checkpoint on March 11, while with his father.
Eyewitnesses report armed children at checkpoints in Tehran and nearby cities.
Human Rights Watch condemned the practice, saying it violates children's rights and constitutes a war crime when involving those under 15.
Experts say use of children in military roles reflects Iranian government's desperation amid declining support.