Katie Porter: “Iran's youth have emerged as leaders of the anti-regime protests--but also as a political target. On November 16…”

“Iran's youth have emerged as leaders of the anti-regime protests--but also as a political target. On November 16, 9-year-old Kian Pirfalak was fatally shot, becoming the youngest killed by Iranian authorities' response to that demonstration. Two months after Mahsa Amini's death, over 60 children have died under Iran's brutal crackdown--children no older than my own. These aren't accidents. Security forces are raiding grade schools looking for student protestors. Mass arrests and violent beatdowns are commonplace. Authorities are even holding hostage the remains of protestors, a heartless practice meant to silence grieving relatives. These children belong in safe schools and loving families, not in body bags. I strongly condemn Iran's killing of children and stand with the protestors demanding change and accountability. Iran should not be allowed to rob children of their lives or their freedoms. ____________________”