International body calls strike a grave violation of humanitarian law
New York: The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has condemned the bombing of a girls’ primary school in Minab, southern Iran, describing the attack as a grave violation of international humanitarian law. The strike occurred Saturday during United States and Israeli military operations targeting Iranian positions.
Missiles destroyed the school building, killing about 150 people and wounding nearly 100 others, according to local authorities. Officials believe many of the victims were students. Rescue teams rushed to the scene as families searched through rubble for survivors. The attack triggered widespread international outrage and renewed calls for civilian protection.
In a statement posted on social media, UNESCO expressed deep alarm over the impact of the military operations on children and education facilities. The agency stressed that international humanitarian law protects schools and students during armed conflict. Furthermore, it warned that attacks on educational institutions endanger teachers and pupils while undermining the fundamental right to education.
UN leaders and activists demand accountability and end to violence
UNESCO said it joined other United Nations bodies and senior officials, including Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, in condemning both the initial strikes and Iran’s retaliatory attacks across the Middle East. The organization urged all parties to respect their legal obligations and safeguard civilians.
Meanwhile, United Nations Messenger of Peace and Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai voiced heartbreak and outrage over the bombing. She condemned the killing of civilians, especially children, and called for an immediate end to escalating violence. Additionally, she demanded accountability and justice for victims.
Malala, who survived a Taliban shooting in 2012 for defending girls’ education in Pakistan, emphasized that every child deserves to live and learn in peace.
