A deadly airstrike on a girls' elementary school in southern Iran's Minab town last week has drawn global condemnation, with at least 175 fatalities reported—many of them children. The attack, which occurred on February 28, marks the deadliest civilian casualty event since strikes by the US and Israel on Iranian targets escalated earlier this year. No party has claimed responsibility.
Precision Strikes Near Strategic Waterway
The school, located less than 50 miles from the Strait of Hormuz, suffered severe structural damage consistent with precision munitions, according to satellite imagery analyzed by The New York Times. The strike coincided with an attack on a nearby Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) naval base, where four buildings were destroyed.
US Acknowledges Operations, Denies Direct Responsibility
While US officials confirmed military aircraft were active in the area during the incident, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated earlier this week that the Department of War is investigating but offered no confirmation of involvement. Legal experts, including Oxford University's Janina Dill, emphasize that attackers must verify targets under international law to avoid civilian harm.
Evidence Raises Questions
Satellite images show simultaneous plumes of smoke at both the school and IRGC base. Former State Department official Beth Van Schaack noted the US's advanced intelligence capabilities should have identified the school's presence. Iranian state media reported classrooms were full due to the Saturday workweek schedule, amplifying the tragedy's scale.
