Iran’s New War-Themed School Textbooks Spark Debate on Child Learning

In the weeks after the 12-day war, Iran’s Ministry of Education distributed new textbooks across the country.
Officials say the goal is to teach elementary and secondary students what they call essential lessons in national defense and resistance.
The three-volume package, titled “We Defend Our Iran,” reached classrooms last week with instructions for teachers to begin lessons immediately.

A Rapid Rewrite of Recent Events

The 48-page elementary edition was created by 35 authors.
It uses stories, imagery and classroom activities to shape how young students understand the recent conflict.
Ministry leaders said the war’s “message” and the government’s response should transfer to schools “as quickly as possible.”

Growing Concerns Over Content

The curriculum has gained attention for both its speed and its approach.
Critics inside Iran’s education community argue that the books elevate religious, ideological and military themes over developmental psychology.
They say this pattern has long affected the country’s school system.

Religious and Military Messaging

The elementary volume opens with a 1980 quote from Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini.
The quote promises victory and urges students not to fear “any superpower.”
This message sets the tone for chapters focused on resistance, bravery and faith.
Chapter titles include “Neighborhood Hero,” “Soldier of the Homeland,” “Solidarity in Hard Times,” and “Common Enemy.”
The textbook is part of the mandatory “Our Iran” educational package, not optional material.

Shaping a Loyal Generation

Ministry documents say the goal is to help second-grade students understand “factors in the war’s victory.”
Teacher instructions go further. They state that the curriculum aims to raise a generation that will support the political system “with awareness and loyal