President Trump on Saturday stated his belief that a deadly strike on a girls’ primary school in southern Iran last weekend was “done by Iran,” though he offered no supporting evidence.
Investigation Underway
Speaking aboard Air Force One after attending the dignified transfer of six U.S. Soldiers killed in an Iranian strike in Kuwait on March 1, Mr. Trump said, “In my opinion, based on what I’ve seen, that was done by Iran…We think it was done by Iran, because they’re very inaccurate with their munitions, they have no accuracy whatsoever, it was done by Iran.”
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, when questioned about the President’s assessment, stated the Pentagon is “investigating,” and added that “the only side that targets civilians is Iran.”
Iranian state media and health officials report the strike, which occurred on February 28 – the first day of the war – killed dozens, including schoolgirls between the ages of 7 and 12. Iranian officials have blamed the U.S. And Israel for the attack.
Sources indicated that Israel was not operating in the area at the time of the strike, with an Israeli source confirming the Israeli Air Force was not operating near the school.
U.S. Investigators, however, are reportedly considering the possibility that the U.S. May have been responsible for the strike.
Conflicting Reports and White House Response
White House spokesperson Anna Kelly stated that the investigation is ongoing and cautioned against drawing conclusions. “There are no conclusions at this time, and it is both irresponsible and false for anyone to claim otherwise,” Kelly said. She affirmed that, “unlike the terrorist Iranian regime, the United States does not target civilians.”
The blast occurred in Minab, a city in the southern Iranian province of Hormozgan. Footage from the scene showed black smoke rising from a damaged building decorated with murals depicting children and school imagery. CBS News geolocated the footage to the Shajareh Tayyebeh elementary school.
The school is located near two sites controlled by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Iranian state media reports more than 170 people were killed in the explosion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in Minab, Iran?
A deadly strike occurred at the Shajareh Tayyebeh elementary school in Minab, Iran, on February 28, resulting in the deaths of dozens, including schoolgirls.
Who is currently investigating the strike?
Both the Pentagon and U.S. Investigators are currently investigating the strike, with the White House stating that the investigation is ongoing.
What has been the response from Iran?
Iranian officials have blamed the U.S. And Israel for the strike, even as President Trump has stated his belief that Iran was responsible.
As investigations continue, what level of transparency will be required to establish accountability for this tragic event?
