US missile hit military base near Iran school, video analysis shows

A US Tomahawk missile struck a military base near a primary school in Minab, southern Iran, according to BBC Verify's analysis of a video released by Iranian media. The strike, which occurred recently, reportedly killed 168 people, including around 110 children. Experts identified the missile as a Tomahawk, not possessed by Iran or Israel, and noted evidence of multiple strikes, suggesting a US operation. While the US has not claimed responsibility, a preliminary US assessment suggests it was "likely" responsible but did not intentionally target the school. Iran blames the US and Israel for the attack, while Israel denies involvement. The verified video shows the missile hitting a clinic at the IRGC base, approximately 200 meters from the school, which appears to have been hit prior to the missile strike.

In March 2026, a video surfaced suggesting a US Tomahawk missile struck an Iranian elementary school for girls in Minab. The attack reportedly resulted in 175 fatalities, primarily children. The video's release puts the United States under scrutiny, as it indicates potential US involvement in the incident. Prior to the video's emergence, the US had accused Iran of perpetrating the attack. The incident and subsequent video have raised questions about responsibility and accountability for the deadly event.

A video released by Iranian state media appears to show a U.S. missile strike on a compound in southern Iran on February 28, coinciding with an attack on the Shajareh Tayyebeh Elementary School. The strike resulted in over 160 deaths, primarily children, drawing condemnation from the UN and human rights organizations. The video, titled "The moment when Israeli and American terrorists struck #Minab school," depicts a munition consistent with a Tomahawk cruise missile hitting the area. Iran has blamed the U.S. and Israel for the school attack, while President Trump has accused Iran of responsibility. The investigative group Bellingcat suggests the video evidence contradicts Trump's claim, noting the U.S. is the only known party in the conflict possessing Tomahawk missiles. The U.S. was also bombing a nearby Revolutionary Guard naval base at the time of the school attack.

A video released by Iranian news agency Mehr appears to show a US Tomahawk missile striking a compound in Minab, Iran, on February 28th. The targeted compound was adjacent to the Shajareh Tayyebeh primary school. The strike resulted in the destruction of approximately half of the school and the deaths of over 168 people, mostly children. Munitions experts identified the missile as a Tomahawk, primarily used by the US military. Satellite imagery confirms damage to both the school and buildings within the adjacent Islamic Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) naval compound. This evidence contradicts claims made by US President Donald Trump that Iran was responsible for the school bombing.

According to Iran's Foreign Ministry, Shahid Hamedani School, an elementary school in Tehran, was struck in US-Israeli attacks on March 6, 2026. Spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei shared a video on X purportedly showing the school before and after the attack. This is reportedly the fourth school hit in Iran since the start of the US and Israeli attacks, including the Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ school in Minab, which resulted in 165 deaths. Some Israeli-linked sources claimed the Minab school was part of an IRGC base, but investigations suggest it was a separate civilian site. The US military is investigating the Minab incident, with officials suggesting US forces were likely responsible.

US military investigators are examining a strike on an Iranian girls' school in Minab on Saturday that resulted in numerous student deaths, potentially as high as 150 according to Iran's UN ambassador. While the investigation is ongoing, US officials believe it is likely that US forces were responsible for the attack, which occurred during joint US and Israeli attacks on Iran. The Pentagon and White House have acknowledged the investigation, with officials emphasizing that the US does not intentionally target civilians. The UN human rights office has called for a thorough investigation into the incident, placing the responsibility on the forces that carried out the attack. The US and Israel had previously divided their attacks geographically, with the US focusing on targets in southern Iran.

Following an attack on a girls' primary school in Minab, southern Iran, that killed 165 pupils, calls are growing for an independent investigation. The attack occurred on the first day of the US and Israel's war against Iran. UN experts have condemned the bombing as a grave assault on children and demanded urgent accountability. Rights advocates suggest the attack, which targeted girls aged 7-12 during class hours, may constitute a war crime. Iran's UN envoy stated the school was deliberately destroyed in US-Israeli attacks, contributing to a civilian death toll of at least 1,332 in the ongoing conflict.

US military investigators are examining a strike on a girls' school in Minab, southern Iran, on Saturday, March 6, 2026, during US and Israeli attacks on the country. Two US officials told Reuters that the US is likely responsible for the strike, which killed scores of children. The investigation is ongoing, and US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth acknowledged the probe on Wednesday. However, the officials cautioned that the investigation is not complete, and new evidence could emerge that absolves the US of responsibility. Reuters was unable to determine specific details about the investigation, including the evidence, type of munition, or reason for the potential US strike.

Since February 28th, Iran has been under heavy US and Israeli strikes targeting military and political sites, with the stated aim of weakening the Islamic regime. While the US denies targeting civilians, Iranian officials report over 160 deaths, including children, from a strike on a girls' school in Minab. Residents describe a climate of fear and heightened security in Tehran, with increased checkpoints and threats against dissent. The attacks have disrupted daily life, causing shortages, price increases for basic goods, and closures of shops and ATMs. Access to independent information is limited due to visa restrictions for international media and internet blackouts, making it difficult to verify the extent of the situation.

In March 2026, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio justified the US war against Iran by claiming Israel planned to strike Iran first, prompting a potential Iranian attack on US assets. This justification, despite being walked back by the Trump administration and Rubio himself, has sparked controversy across the political spectrum. President Trump offered a different rationale, stating the US launched the war because Iran was preparing to attack Israel and others. The administration has struggled to provide evidence of an imminent Iranian threat to US assets or that Iran's nuclear program posed an immediate danger. Critics suggest the war serves Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's interests more than Washington's, given the US's significant military aid to Israel.

A new video report published by the New York Times on March 3, 2026, investigates President Trump's decision to pursue military action against Iran. The report, led by Mark Mazzetti, claims Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's desire to end diplomatic negotiations significantly influenced Trump's decision. The investigation details how few of Trump's advisors voiced opposition to the military action. The video report aims to explain the factors and influences behind President Trump's choice to engage in military conflict with Iran. The report was produced by Mark Mazzetti, Leila Medina, Sutton Raphael, Joey Sendaydiego, Jon Hazell and Rafaela Balster.

On March 3, 2026, Donald Trump contradicted claims made by his Secretary of State and Republican leaders, including Marco Rubio, regarding the impetus for a military attack. These individuals had suggested that Israel pressured the U.S. into initiating the conflict with Iran. Trump refuted this assertion, stating that Israel did not force his hand. Instead, he claimed that he might have been the one to pressure Israel into taking action. The location of these statements and the specific context surrounding the attack on Iran were not detailed in the provided information.

Following US-Israeli strikes on Iran that resulted in the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, Farah Pahlavi, the widow of the last Shah, stated that Khamenei's death, while historically significant, will not automatically lead to the collapse of the Iranian system. Pahlavi, speaking in an interview, emphasized the importance of the Iranian people uniting for a peaceful transition to a law-based state. She urged the international community to respect Iranian sovereignty and support the people's self-determination. Pahlavi also noted that her son, Reza Pahlavi, is preparing for a potential transition should the current republic fall. The attacks and Khamenei's death have created turmoil in the Middle East and raised questions about Iran's future.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has defended his decision to go to war with Iran alongside the United States. The joint military attacks began on March 2, 2026, targeting police stations and other locations in Tehran, Iran. This move marks a significant shift in Israel's foreign policy, as it enlists the U.S. support for what Netanyahu views as an existential battle against Iran's leadership. The partnership between Israel and the U.S. has been a cornerstone of Netanyahu's diplomatic efforts throughout his career. The war with Iran is seen as a high-stakes gamble that could strain the relationship between the two countries. The conflict has far-reaching consequences, both domestically and internationally.

In March 2026, Iranian government media showcased buildings in Tehran reportedly destroyed by US and Israeli strikes. The damaged sites included a diplomatic police center and a state-owned cultural institute. The media tour followed reported attacks that have resulted in at least 787 deaths in Iran. The strikes, attributed to the US and Israel, targeted government buildings in the capital city. The reason for the attacks was not stated in the provided information. The extent of the damage beyond the two buildings shown remains unknown.

In Minab, Iran, thousands mourned the deaths of 165 schoolgirls and staff on March 3, 2026, following an attack on a primary school. Iranian officials attribute the strike to the United States and Israel, though Washington denies targeting the school. The alleged attack resulted in a mass funeral for the victims. The United Nations and human rights officials have called for an independent investigation into the incident to determine the circumstances and responsibility. The purpose of the strike and the validity of Iran's claims remain unconfirmed pending further investigation.

Following U.S. strikes in Iran, Secretary of State Rubio initially suggested the action was prompted by knowledge of an impending Israeli strike and the anticipation of Iranian retaliation against U.S. forces. The U.S. government decided to attack Iran based on these assumptions. However, Rubio later walked back this suggestion. The initial statement implied that Israel's planned actions influenced the U.S. decision to strike Iran. The reason for Rubio's retraction was not specified in the provided information.

A US-Israeli war against Iran began on Saturday with bombing and missile attacks, escalating into a regional conflict. The initial strikes, dubbed Operation Lion's Roar by Israel and Operation Epic Fury by the US, targeted key security and political sites in Tehran and other Iranian cities, reportedly killing at least 555 people. Iran retaliated with strikes across the Middle East, leading to Israeli bombings in Lebanon after Hezbollah attacks. Cyprus also reported a drone attack on a British base. The UK, France, and Germany have expressed readiness to counter Iranian attacks. Civilian casualties are likely as security institutions are located in residential areas, and authorities have instructed citizens to flee major cities.

On March 2, 2026, Israel bombed the southern suburbs of Beirut, Lebanon. This action followed a rocket attack by Hezbollah on northern Israel. Hezbollah's attack was reportedly in retaliation for the killing of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. The Israeli strikes on Beirut were described as heavy. The events signal an escalation of conflict in the region following Khamenei's death.

Following US and Israeli strikes that killed Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, markets opened with a sharp sell-off in futures and Asian shares. Chinese satellite images taken on Sunday by the Dongfang Huiyan Gaofen01 satellite reveal significant damage in central Tehran, specifically to Khamenei's compound. The satellite, developed by Wuhan University and the government of Yantai, uses AI and high-definition technology. The same satellite system was previously used to analyze destruction in Gaza. On Monday, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reported speaking with leaders from the UAE and Israel regarding the escalating regional situation.

Following joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran that killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in March 2026, Iran retaliated by targeting Israel and US-linked military sites in the region, including in Gulf states hosting US forces. The exchange raises concerns about escalating conflict and Iran's capacity to strike back. Central to Iran's strategy is its large and diverse missile arsenal, including ballistic and cruise missiles, providing long-range capabilities. Iranian officials consider the missile program a key deterrent, especially given its aging air force. Western governments, however, view Iran's missile capabilities as destabilizing and potentially linked to nuclear ambitions, claims Iran denies.

Following the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, US officials are reportedly skeptical that a regime change in Iran is likely in the near future. Despite President Trump's call for Iranian patriots to "take back" their country, three US officials familiar with intelligence suggest that Iran's opposition is unlikely to topple the current theocratic government. While not completely ruling out the possibility due to ongoing US and Israeli air strikes and internal unrest, officials consider a near-term regime change improbable. The Iranian President, along with other officials, have temporarily assumed the duties of the supreme leader. The US and Israeli operation aimed to cripple Iran's ballistic missile and nuclear programs, with some US officials suggesting toppling the government as a goal.

Following the death of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's governing system selected Ayatollah Alireza Arafi to its interim leadership council. Arafi, a hard-line cleric, has a long history of anti-American and anti-Israel rhetoric, advocating for the destruction of Israel and the humiliation of global powers. Experts suggest Arafi's elevation signals he is a potential candidate to succeed Khamenei as Supreme Leader. Arafi's experience includes leading Iran's seminary, Al-Mustafa University, and serving on the Guardian Council and Assembly of Experts. He has also served as the Friday prayer leader of Qom, a center for Iranian clergy. His rise is being closely watched in Washington due to his hard-line stance and potential implications for U.S. interests.

US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are set to meet at Mar-a-Lago, Florida, on December 29, 2025. The two leaders have differing reasons for their involvement in the war against Iran, with Israel seeking "regime change" and the US aiming to "defend the American people". Despite the assassination of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, a mass uprising within Iran has not materialized. Both countries have achieved tactical victories, but the alliance's long-term prospects are uncertain. Netanyahu's political survival is a key interest, as he seeks to distance himself from Israel's failures in Gaza and the West Bank. The meeting between Trump and Netanyahu will likely reveal their respective strategies for leveraging their successes.

In March 2026, Al Jazeera reported on the potential impact of the hypothetical killing of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. While some US officials and Iranian opposition groups believe his death would signify the end of the Islamic Republic, Al Jazeera's Soraya Lennie argues that this is not necessarily the case. The report suggests that the Supreme Leader's death and the existence of the Islamic Republic are not inextricably linked. The analysis explores why the system of government in Iran may persist even without its current leader. The report aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the complexities of Iranian politics and power structures.

Amid escalating conflict in the Middle East, Donald Trump expressed openness to negotiations with Iran following US-Israeli air strikes. These strikes, aimed at overthrowing the regime, resulted in the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and numerous other officials. Iran retaliated with missile attacks, causing casualties and prompting an emergency UN Security Council meeting where Iran accused the US and Israel of deliberately targeting civilian areas. The conflict has triggered a surge in oil prices and raised concerns about global economic stability. Both sides have reported casualties, including civilian deaths and military losses, as the fighting continues.

On March 1, 2026, an Iranian man publicly accused Israel of war crimes while holding the remains of a girl reportedly killed in an attack on an elementary school in Minab, located in southern Iran. The incident, captured in a NewsFeedVideo, highlights the aftermath of an attack that allegedly resulted in the deaths of at least 108 children. The man's accusation directly links Israel to the attack on the school. The video and the man's statement serve as a direct response to the tragic event and place blame for the deaths of the children. The event raises questions about the circumstances surrounding the attack and the potential involvement of external actors.

In late February and early March 2026, the United States and Israel conducted strikes on Iran, resulting in the death of Iranian leader Ali Khamenei. World leaders are reacting cautiously to the events, with many urging a return to diplomatic talks. The strikes have sparked demonstrations both in support of and against the actions in various locations, including London, Berlin, and New York. The international community is closely monitoring the situation as it unfolds. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz have been seen in public, but their specific reactions to the strikes are not detailed. The strikes occurred on Saturday, February 28, 2026, with continued repercussions into the following days.

On March 1, 2026, the United States and Israel conducted a large attack in Iran that resulted in the death of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The New York Times reported on the immediate aftermath of the attack and the reactions of ordinary Iranians. The report, led by Iran bureau chief Erika Solomon, focused on how Iranians are responding to the sudden end of Khamenei's authoritarian rule. The report also examined the uncertainty surrounding Iran's future following this significant event. The video report aimed to provide insight into the situation on the ground in Iran following the strikes.

Following the death of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in US-Israeli strikes, questions arise about the stability of the Islamic Republic. While some analysts predicted a potential collapse, initial signs suggest a hardening of the current regime, with security institutions consolidating power. In the immediate aftermath, paramilitary units deployed nationwide to prevent unrest, and Iran retaliated with missile and drone attacks on Israeli and US-linked targets. Despite these actions, the attacks struggled to penetrate Israeli defenses or inflict substantial damage on American forces. Analysts warn that a contested interim period, potentially leading to increased military control, poses a greater risk than an orderly transition. The future of Iran's leadership and political structure remains uncertain.

Following the assassinations of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other Iranian officials in early 2026, some Western powers hoped for a swift regime change in Iran. However, this article, published on March 1, 2026, argues that foreign intervention is unlikely to produce the desired outcome. Referencing Afghanistan, Iraq, and Libya, the author suggests that external military operations often lead to chaos and instability rather than a smooth transition. These countries experienced prolonged conflict, civil war, and governmental division after interventions. The article implies that Iran, after Khamenei, may not experience the quick and decisive rupture that intervention proponents anticipate.

Iranian state media announced the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei following attacks across Iran by the US and Israel, which began on Saturday morning local time. The confirmation was delivered via a statement from Iran's Supreme National Security Council, broadcast on state television. The announcement followed claims by US President Donald Trump that Khamenei was dead and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's statement that Khamenei's Tehran compound had been struck. The attacks and subsequent announcement mark a significant escalation in tensions in the region. The reasons behind the attacks were not disclosed in the article.

In February 2026, President Trump ordered a military operation against Iran, including targeted strikes on Iranian leadership, a significant shift from his stance just months prior. The decision, made in conjunction with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, involved strikes on key Iranian nuclear sites and the targeting of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. This marked a change in Trump's risk tolerance regarding the use of American military force against Iran. Previously, in June during Israel's war with Iran, Trump had agreed to bomb nuclear sites but rejected a plan to kill Khamenei. The military operation took place on Saturday, February 28, 2026, and was followed by Trump announcing Khamenei's death on social media.

In a video posted on March 1, 2026, US President Donald Trump vowed to continue military attacks on Iran until "all objectives are achieved," framing the conflict as a response to an existential threat to the US. Trump stated that Iran, if armed with long-range missiles and nuclear weapons, would pose a dire threat, though no evidence has been presented to support Iran's development of such weapons. The attacks, launched alongside Israel, followed the deaths of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other high-ranking officials. Trump acknowledged the deaths of three US military personnel amid Iranian retaliation and predicted more casualties, promising to avenge their deaths. This statement contrasts with earlier interviews where Trump appeared open to diplomatic solutions.

The US and Israel have initiated a joint military operation against Iran, commencing with widespread airstrikes targeting key political, security, and military sites. The operation, dubbed "Operation Lion's Roar" by Israel, aims to degrade the Iranian regime's capabilities. Strikes hit at least 14 cities, including Tehran, targeting the residence of Supreme Leader Khamenei, weapons facilities, and ballistic missile caches. Satellite imagery confirms damage to Khamenei's compound. At least 85 people were reportedly killed and over 63 wounded in a strike on a girls' school in Minab, verified by Reuters. The stated goal of the operation is regime change, with the campaign continuing indefinitely.

According to Jeremy Bowen, the US and Israel have initiated a new war with Iran, viewing it as an opportune moment due to Iran's internal vulnerabilities, including economic crisis and damaged defenses. Israel justified the attack as "pre-emptive," though the article suggests it is a war of choice, not a response to an imminent threat. Both President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu have stated that Iran poses a danger to their countries, but the legal justification of self-defense is questionable given the power disparity. Netanyahu aims to weaken the Iranian regime and military, potentially bolstering his political standing ahead of elections, while Trump's objectives have shifted, focusing on Iran's nuclear ambitions despite previous claims of its program being "obliterated." The conflict raises concerns about international law and the unpredictable nature of war.

On February 28, 2026, explosions were reported in Tehran, the capital of Iran. The explosions occurred as Israel launched an attack against Iran. Video footage shows smoke rising in Tehran following the reported Israeli attack. The specific targets and the extent of the damage caused by the attack are not detailed in this brief report. The reasons behind the attack are not mentioned in the article.

Exiled Iranian Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi has called on Iranians to overthrow the current regime following reported joint U.S.-Israeli strikes. Pahlavi described the strikes as "humanitarian intervention" targeting the Islamic Republic, not the Iranian people, and urged the U.S. to protect civilian lives. He appealed to Iran's military and security forces to defect from the regime and join the people, promising a stable transition. While predicting the regime's collapse, Pahlavi advised citizens to remain home for now, awaiting his signal to return to the streets for a final push. He framed the moment as a decisive opportunity for Iranians to reclaim their country.

In February 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the United States and Israel jointly attacked Iran to eliminate an "existential threat." Netanyahu praised the joint operation, claiming it would empower the Iranian people to determine their own future. He also commended U.S. President Donald Trump for his leadership in the action. The location of the strikes within Iran was not specified in the report. The stated reason for the attack was to remove a perceived threat to the U.S. and Israel.