International law and civilian protection at the center of mounting diplomatic tensions
The United Nations has called for a prompt, independent and impartial investigation into what it described as a “horrific” attack on a girls’ school in southern Iran.
According to Iranian authorities, the attack struck an elementary school in the city of Minab, reportedly killing dozens of students. Images circulating online showed widespread destruction at the site and scenes of grief among families. The UN said it could not independently verify all details but stressed that the high number of reported child casualties raised serious concerns under international humanitarian law.
Ravina Shamdasani, spokesperson for the UN human rights office, described the incident as “absolutely horrific” and emphasized the urgent need for clarity about what happened and who was responsible. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk urged all parties involved in the escalating hostilities to exercise restraint and ensure the protection of civilians, particularly children.
The reported attack comes amid rising regional tensions involving Iran, the United States and Israel. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that U.S. forces do not deliberately target schools, while Israeli officials indicated they were reviewing the circumstances surrounding the strike.
The UN stressed that attacks on schools and other civilian infrastructure may constitute violations of international law and, depending on the facts, could amount to war crimes. It reiterated that all parties to any conflict are bound by the principles of distinction, proportionality and precaution, and that those responsible for unlawful attacks must be held accountable.
