Civilian Casualties in Iran: Stories of Those Lost in Conflict

Tue Mar 24 2026 05:41:09 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

This article highlights the tragic losses of innocent lives in Iran due to ongoing conflicts, featuring personal stories of victims like Parastesh Dahaghin and Berivan Molani. It sheds light on the harrowing impact of war on civilians, especially children.

The ongoing hostilities in Iran have led to catastrophic civilian casualties, including young professionals and children. This report tells the stories of two victims - a pharmacist and a blogger - as well as the broader implications of airstrikes on Iranian society amidst a humanitarian crisis.

Parastesh Dahaghin was a young pharmacist killed in an explosion while she was at work. Berivan Molani was in bed when debris from an air strike in Tehran struck her head. For more than three weeks, Tehran and other cities have been pummelled by US and Israeli airstrikes, targeting thousands across the country. Civilian casualties are rising quickly, and among them are even minors, such as Eilmah Bilki, a three-year-old who died a day after being injured in Sardasht.

These tragedies are only glimpses into the heavy toll war has exacted on innocent lives, with many more stories lost amidst the chaos. Parastesh was working at her pharmacy in Tehran's Apadana neighbourhood when a nearby IT company's building was hit. Her brother Poorya recounted her bravery and dedication to her community, saying, People need me... I have to stay here and help my people.

Berivan, a 26-year-old blogger, returned home from safer northern Iran only the day before her death. Her family was unaware of the dangers around them, with Berivan fatally injured in her own home during military strikes. Video footage released shows a heart-wrenching attempt to rescue her mother amidst rubble as she desperately asks about her daughter.

The Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) indicates over 1,400 civilian deaths have occurred since the onset of the conflict, with significant concern over the high number of children involved. Notably, a missile strike on a primary school led to tragic fatalities among students. The Iranian health infrastructure is under extreme strain, compounded by restrictions on information and communication amid ongoing military aggressions.

These stories illustrate the stark reality of civilian life amidst warfare, emphasizing the urgent need for protection of civilians as outlined in international humanitarian law. The grappling emotional and psychological impact on families displaced by violence underscores an escalating humanitarian crisis.