At least 85 people have been killed following a strike on a girls’ school in Minab, southern Iran, amid escalating military confrontation between Iran, Israel, and the United States. Iranian judicial authorities confirmed the rising death toll, describing the incident as one of the deadliest developments in the current crisis.
The attack occurred after the United States and Israel launched coordinated strikes on Iranian targets earlier on Saturday. The school in Minab was reportedly hit during the broader military operation.
Rising Casualties Confirmed
According to Iranian officials, the death toll at the girls’ school has climbed to 85. Authorities indicated that students were among those killed. The tragedy has sparked national mourning and widespread condemnation across Iran.
Emergency teams rushed to the site shortly after the strike. However, the scale of destruction left many families devastated. The incident marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict.
Iran’s President Condemns the Attack
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian strongly condemned the strike, calling it a “barbaric” act. He described the incident as another dark chapter in what he termed aggression against Iran.
In an official statement, the president accused those responsible of committing grave violations. He emphasized that attacks on civilian institutions, especially schools, represent a serious breach of international norms.
Background of the Escalation
Earlier on Saturday, the United States and Israel announced joint military strikes against Iran. Both governments claimed the action aimed to neutralize threats linked to Iran’s missile and nuclear capabilities.
Leaders from Washington and Tel Aviv released separate video statements following the operation. They suggested that the strikes targeted what they described as security threats posed by the Iranian government.
Iran, however, rejected these claims and labeled the strikes a violation of its sovereignty. Tehran vowed to respond and subsequently launched retaliatory missile attacks targeting regional sites.
Diplomatic Efforts Under Strain
The military escalation comes at a sensitive time. Oman has been mediating indirect talks between Washington and Tehran over Iran’s nuclear program. The latest round of discussions was held in Geneva just days before the strikes.
The attack on the Minab school now casts uncertainty over future diplomatic efforts. Analysts warn that the incident may further complicate negotiations and deepen mistrust between the involved parties.
Growing Regional Tensions
The conflict has already triggered wider instability across the Middle East. Several countries have heightened security measures, and air defenses have been activated in multiple locations.
As tensions continue to rise, international observers have expressed concern over the humanitarian impact. Civilian casualties, particularly involving children, have intensified calls for immediate de-escalation.
The situation remains fluid, with both military and diplomatic developments unfolding rapidly.
