Children from the Japanese school in Iran's capital, Tehran, have attended a graduation ceremony in Tokyo.

About 50 people -- students, parents, guardians, teachers, staff and others -- attended Sunday's event. Staff from the Japanese embassy in Iran also participated online.

All the students, teachers and staff are now in Japan amid the rising tensions over Iran.

Principal Nishida Takayuki encouraged the children after handing them their graduation certificates. He said what they are experiencing now is not what life is all about and there will be stages in the future where they will play an active role.

He called on the new graduates to bloom wherever they are planted and to grow into individuals who support others with kindness and make them smile.

Students in the lower grades thanked the graduates as they spoke about their memories of them.

One of the graduates expressed their determination to keep working hard in junior high, remembering what they have learned and being grateful to those who supported them.

The ceremony closed with the school song and people saying goodbye to each other.

Officials say the students are now attending schools in Japan. They say the Tehran school will be closed from the new academic year.

The principal said children suffer the most in conflicts that they never want. He said he will prioritize mental well-being for them.