In Cambodia, Iran war forcing families to choose between school for kids or survival

The Iran war is significantly impacting education for impoverished families in Cambodia and other developing nations, forcing difficult choices between schooling and basic survival. Rising fuel prices, a direct consequence of the war, are increasing transportation costs for students and teachers, and straining national education budgets. A UNICEF report indicates that the conflict could push an additional 23.4 million children into poverty, primarily in Africa and Asia, by year-end. Families reliant on fishing, like Sou Sreynich's in Cambodia, are particularly affected as higher fuel costs limit their ability to reach abundant fishing grounds, leading children to skip school for work. "The Iran war is likely going to force millions of children out of school," stated Sabrina Hervey of the Education Above All Foundation. The long-term effects include increased vulnerability to exploitation and a potential reversal of progress in education and poverty reduction, with girls in South Asia facing higher risks of dropping out and child marriage.