By JULIA FRANKEL and MICHAEL BIESECKER
JERUSALEM (AP) — Recent satellite imagery, expert analysis, and information disclosed by the U.S. and Israeli militaries indicate that a tragic explosion resulting in the death of numerous Iranian students at a school was likely caused by U.S. airstrikes that also targeted a nearby compound associated with Iran’s Revolutionary Guard.
The strike, which occurred on Feb. 28 and led to the highest reported civilian casualties since the war’s initiation, has sparked criticism from the United Nations and human rights organizations. Over 165 individuals, mostly children, lost their lives in the explosion that took place during school hours at Shajareh Tayyebeh Elementary School in Minab, located approximately 1,100 kilometers southeast of Tehran, as reported by Iranian state media.
Satellite images analyzed by experts reveal extensive destruction at the school, with a distinct crescent-shaped impact visible on the roof, consistent with a targeted airstrike.
While Iran has accused Israel and the U.S. of carrying out the attack, neither country has taken responsibility. In response to inquiries about the incident, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated during a Pentagon press briefing that an investigation is underway to determine the facts surrounding the strike.
Several factors point towards a U.S. involvement, including the initiation of an assessment by the U.S. military following the incident and the proximity of the school to a Revolutionary Guard base in Hormozgan Province. The U.S. military has previously acknowledged strikes in the region, further fueling speculation.
Israel, on the other hand, has denied any role in the attack, emphasizing its focus on areas closer to its borders. The presence of U.S. warships, including the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier, in the Arabian Sea within range of the school adds to the speculation of U.S. involvement.
Upon being approached for comment, U.S. Central Command declined to provide any information, citing an ongoing investigation into the matter.
The strike’s aftermath revealed significant damage to both the school and the adjacent Guard compound, raising concerns about the targeting of civilian structures. International bodies have condemned the attack, highlighting the violation of laws governing armed conflict.
Experts analyzing satellite imagery and videos from the scene suggest that multiple munitions were used in the strike, resulting in precise impacts within the compound. The absence of bomb fragments in the surrounding area indicates a high level of accuracy in targeting.
The visible damage aligns with the use of air-to-surface munitions, suggesting a deliberate targeting of the school and surrounding structures. While the exact type of munitions used remains unclear, the extent of destruction indicates a significant military operation.
As investigations continue, questions arise regarding the intelligence and targeting processes leading to the tragic incident. The international community awaits further clarification on the circumstances surrounding the deadly strike.
Biesecker reported from Washington. Associated Press writers Jon Gambrell in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and Konstantin Toropin in Washington contributed to this report.
