Flying Turtle Award jury condemns ZionistUS missile strike

Flying Turtle Award jury condemns Zionist-U.S. missile strike

TEHRAN- The jury committee of the Flying Turtle Award, Iran's distinguished children's literature prize, has issued a statement condemning the Zionist-U.S. military strikes against Iran that devastated a school in Minab, Hormozgan province, and a sports facility in Lamerd, Fars province, while urging international organizations to intervene and prevent such tragedies from recurring.

The jury committee expressed their deep sorrow over the tragic loss of more than 200 children across the country, IRNA reported on Wednesday.

The full text of the statement follows:

"What our beloved country has witnessed in recent days is horrifying—a catastrophe as destructive as all wars. The American missile attack on the Minab primary school and the Lamerd sports stadium, which claimed the lives of over 200 children nationwide, is so painful that it strikes at the heart of every human being.

We condemn this crime and express our sincere condolences to the grieving families of the victims. We call upon international organizations, particularly UNICEF, to prioritize investigation and inquiry into this matter, and to exert every effort to prevent such tragedies from repeating in the world. However, this is not the only tragedy. Children who have been physically exposed to harm, or who have spent their days and nights enduring the sound of explosions, shaking windows, and trembling walls while witnessing destruction and loss of their loved ones, require special care and attention.

Increasing our knowledge of how to handle high-risk situations, based on guidelines from reputable domestic and international organizations, is the first step in confronting the dangers and injuries resulting from this situation. Adherence to safety measures and maintaining calmness during bombardment are only part of what we can do to protect children and adolescents. Spending time and playing with children, engaging in honest conversations about war without frightening details, embracing and comforting children, striving to maintain the usual routine of life (sleep, food, play, and study), and creating a sense of security all hold special importance.

Treating anxiety caused by the sound of explosions and bombardment in children requires patience, awareness, and continuous practice. However, considering the high sensitivity and flexibility of children's brains, by following safety guidelines and providing proper care, they can gradually return to normal conditions. Simple digital games can also help reduce anxiety. However, in our opinion, the best supplement for confronting children's anxiety and teaching them how to deal with such situations is the book. Family reading sessions of storybooks are among the best ways to strengthen emotional bonds with children, provide them with a sense of security, and reduce their anxiety. Sweet stories and rhythmic poetry work wonders for young children. For older children, there are also suitable novels and non-fiction books. Using authoritative lists to select the best children's and young adult books can be an effective aid for families.

War is an ugly phenomenon that brings death, destruction, and ruin. On the beginning of the Persian New Year, we hope that this year will end with peace and triumph for the Iranian people."

The Flying Turtle Award is one of Iran's most prestigious literary prizes dedicated to promoting children's and young adult literature. The jury committee consists of experienced authors, educators, and literary critics who evaluate nominated works and select winners for the annual ceremony. The Book City Institute and the Children’s Literature Studies Periodical are the organizers of the Flying Turtle Awards.

SAB/

source: tehrantimes.com