First Lady Melania Trump presided over a United Nations Security Council meeting on Monday focused on the impact of conflict on children and education, marking the first time a world leader’s spouse has chaired such a session. The meeting came as the US continues its military operations in Iran.
Speaking on behalf of the United States, which assumed the rotating presidency of the UN Security Council this month, Trump highlighted the importance of education in fostering tolerance and promoting global peace.
“The US stands with all of the children throughout the world. I hope soon peace will be yours,” she said, advocating for the protection and well-being of children affected by armed conflicts.
Trump also offered condolences to families of US service members who have lost their lives, saying, “Their bravery and dedication will always be remembered. I extend my earnest wishes for a swift and smooth recovery to all those who have been injured. You are in my thoughts and prayers during these challenging times.”
UN Under-Secretary General Rosemary DiCarlo emphasised the vulnerability of children during conflicts. “When conflicts erupt, children are among those most severely affected. Schools in Israel, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman have closed and moved to remote learning owing to the ongoing military operations in the region,” she said.
DiCarlo also referenced reports from Iran, where officials say a strike on an elementary school in the town of Minab on Saturday killed 153 children, with Iran blaming the US and Israel. The US military’s Central Command confirmed it is investigating the reports, while Israel’s military said it was “not aware” of any operations in the area.
Before the meeting, Iran’s UN Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani criticised the session, calling it “deeply shameful and hypocritical” that the US convened a high-level discussion on protecting children on the first day of its Security Council presidency.
Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio assured that “the United States will not deliberately target a school,” reaffirming the administration’s commitment to minimising civilian harm.
Melissa Enoch
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