US President Donald Trump stated on Wednesday that the attack on a girls' school in Iran during the early stages of the February conflict was not intentional. Speaking at a press conference on the sidelines of the G7 summit in France, Trump said preliminary findings did not suggest deliberate targeting.
Trump's remarks on the strike
“You’re talking about a long time ago, but nobody did that on purpose,” Trump said. “Mistakes are made, yeah, the war’s nasty. But I know it’s under investigation, and I could have a report for you tomorrow.”
The US president had earlier, shortly after the attack in February, suggested that Iran might have been responsible, claiming Tehran's forces were known for inaccurate strikes.
Details of the attack
The strike occurred on the first day of the conflict, 28 February, and killed more than 175 children and teachers, according to Iranian officials. The attack drew international condemnation and intensified scrutiny of civilian casualties during the conflict.
US investigation
Reuters reported in March that US military investigators believed American forces were likely behind the strike, but officials said the inquiry remained ongoing. According to US Central Command, the investigation is complicated by the school's proximity to a base operated by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and a nearby cruise missile facility.
International reaction
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) described the bombing of the school as a grave violation of international humanitarian law. The agency stressed that schools are protected civilian facilities and should never be targeted during military operations. UNESCO called for a thorough investigation and accountability for those responsible.
