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.

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 a US-Israeli attack on a girls' school in Minab, Iran, a mass funeral was held for the 165 schoolgirls and staff killed on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. Thousands gathered in Minab, chanting against the US and Israel, with attendees including families and officials. The attack, which occurred on Saturday after the announcement of joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran, is described as the deadliest incident targeting civilians in the ongoing conflict. Iranian officials, including Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, have condemned the attack, accusing the US and Israel of deliberately targeting the school. While Israel has denied involvement, Iran has presented the event as a deliberate act of aggression, displaying images of the victims and newly dug graves.

In March 2026, President Donald Trump indicated he is seeking a new leader for Iran who is an improvement over Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Trump stated he wants a leader who can improve the country for its citizens. The statement comes amid discussions about exiled Iranian dissident Reza Pahlavi as a potential successor to the current regime. Pahlavi, an opposition figure, is being considered as a possible alternative leader for Iran. The U.S. President did not explicitly endorse Pahlavi but suggested the U.S. is looking for a leader who can positively transform Iran.

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.

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.

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.

Following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a U.S. and Israeli bombardment, Iran is facing a succession crisis as it chooses its second supreme leader since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Potential replacements include hard-liners favoring confrontation with the West and reformists seeking diplomacy. The supreme leader holds ultimate authority over key decisions, including matters of war, peace, and the nuclear program. Currently, a provisional governing council consisting of President Masoud Pezeshkian, judiciary chief Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei, and cleric Ayatollah Ali Reza Arafi is managing the country during this critical period. The Foreign Minister is Abbas Aragh.

Ali Larijani, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, refuted US media reports on March 2, 2026, claiming he sought to resume nuclear talks with the United States through Omani mediators. This denial follows a Wall Street Journal report stating Larijani's push occurred after the US and Israel killed Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Larijani stated Iran would not negotiate with the US and criticized former President Trump's policies, accusing him of prioritizing Israel and endangering American soldiers. The US and Israel have continued attacks across Iran, while Iran has responded by targeting US assets in the Middle East. Iran's Foreign Minister has condemned the killing of Khamenei as terrorism in a letter to the UN, describing the attacks as a dangerous escalation.

Following a joint US-Israeli assault that killed Iran's Supreme Leader, Iran retaliated with missile and drone strikes targeting Gulf states, including Doha, Dubai, Manama, and Riyadh, on March 2, 2026. These attacks damaged infrastructure and caused injuries and fatalities across the region. The strikes present Gulf states with a difficult decision: whether to respond militarily and risk being perceived as allied with Israel, or to remain passive while facing continued attacks. Analysts suggest the attacks shattered the Gulf states' image of stability and have placed them in a precarious position. The attacks targeted both civilian and military infrastructure, impacting airports, landmark buildings, and residential areas.

On March 1, 2026, smoke was observed rising from the Jebel Ali Port, Dubai's main shipping port. This occurred amidst ongoing retaliation by Iran for attacks allegedly carried out by the US and Israel. The port was reportedly struck by debris from an intercepted missile the previous day, Saturday. The incident took place in the context of heightened tensions and escalating conflict in the region. The extent of the damage to the port is currently unknown.

Following U.S. and Israeli strikes that killed Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and other top officials on Saturday, Russian President Vladimir Putin condemned the action as a "cynical violation" of international norms. In a letter to Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Putin expressed condolences and praised Khamenei's contribution to Russian-Iranian relations. The Iranian Ambassador to the United Nations, Amir-Saeid Iravani, also condemned the strikes during a U.N. Security Council meeting, accusing the U.S. of undermining international stability and vowing to exercise Iran's right to self-defense. Former U.S. President Donald Trump stated the strikes were ordered due to Iran's continued efforts to develop nuclear weapons, reiterating the U.S. policy of preventing Iran from acquiring such weapons.

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.

In March 2026, Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in a joint US-Israeli air attack, a significant blow to Iran's leadership since the 1979 revolution. The US, under President Trump, anticipates a swift collapse of the Iranian government, framing the operation as a "liberation" moment. However, analysts and insiders suggest the assassination could lead to a more militarized and aggressive Iranian state. They warn that the power vacuum might result in a "garrison state" willing to take extreme measures to survive. While Iran's President Pezeshkian vowed revenge, experts caution against assuming air strikes alone can trigger regime change without ground forces or internal uprising.

According to US President Donald Trump, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's Supreme Leader, has died following US and Israeli airstrikes. Iran has not confirmed the death of the 86-year-old, who has held the powerful position for three decades since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. As Supreme Leader, Khamenei was head of state, commander-in-chief, and held significant influence over public policy and elections. Born in 1939, Khamenei rose to prominence as a critic of the Shah, facing imprisonment and exile before becoming a key figure in the post-revolution leadership. His weekly sermons broadcast nationwide solidified his position. His death, if confirmed, could lead to an uncertain future for Iran and the region.

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.

Iranian missiles struck multiple locations across the Arab Gulf states, including Dubai and Abu Dhabi, marking a significant escalation of regional conflict. The attacks damaged infrastructure, including airports and hotels in Dubai, demonstrating Iran's capability to strike US allies in the region. These strikes, according to analysts, aim to deter Gulf states from supporting potential US or Israeli actions against Iran. The attacks highlight the vulnerability of Gulf nations and underscore Iran's willingness to "internationalize the battlefield," bringing the conflict directly to its neighbors. This development is likely to strengthen Arab rulers' support for potential US-Israeli strikes.

In a recent military operation, President Trump authorized targeted strikes against Iranian leadership, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, marking a significant shift in his approach to Iran. This action contrasts with his stance eight months prior when he rejected an Israeli plan to kill Khamenei due to concerns about regional destabilization. The recent operation, conducted in collaboration with Israel, resulted in the deaths of Khamenei, the defense minister, and the commander of the Revolutionary Guard, as confirmed by Iranian state TV. Trump announced Khamenei's death and framed the operation as an opportunity for the Iranian people to reclaim their country. This represents a notable escalation in Trump's willingness to use military force against Iran compared to his earlier reluctance.

A coordinated US-Israeli strike targeted Iran on Saturday, reportedly killing several top Iranian leaders, including the commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The operation involved a precision strike on a key target in Tehran, believed to be Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s compound, alongside a broader offensive using US-deployed kamikaze drones. US Central Command confirmed the use of these one-way attack drones, modeled after Iranian Shahed drones, for the first time in combat during "Operation Epic Fury." The attack, described as a "wildly bold daytime attack," targeted Iranian military, government, and intelligence sites, catching senior leadership off guard. Former President Trump announced that Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei had been killed in the strike.

A video published on February 28, 2026, shows an Iranian missile strike on a United States military base in Bahrain. The strike was reported by Al Jazeera. According to the news report, the attack was part of Iran's retaliation for attacks by Israel and the US within Iran. The article provides no further details regarding the extent of damage or casualties resulting from the strike. The event is framed within the context of ongoing tensions and conflict between Iran, the US, and Israel.

On Saturday morning, the US and Israel launched joint strikes on Iran, targeting Iranian leaders and military sites. In response, Iran's IRGC fired missiles at US military bases in the Gulf, with explosions reported in Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE, and Qatar, resulting in one death in the UAE. Explosions also occurred in Tehran, near the presidential palace. Iran launched missiles at Israel, triggering air defense systems over Jerusalem. The US President vowed to crush Iran's military and eliminate its nuclear program, citing the need to defend Americans. The Israeli Prime Minister stated the operation aimed to remove an existential threat. These events followed inconclusive nuclear talks between the US and Iran.

The US and Israel have launched a joint attack on Iran, with explosions reported in Tehran and other cities including Isfahan, Qom, Karaj, and Kermanshah. The attacks began around 09:30 Tehran time, leading to the closure of Iranian airspace. US President Donald Trump confirmed US military involvement, stating the objective is to eliminate threats from the Iranian regime and prevent them from obtaining nuclear weapons. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu echoed this message, urging Iranians to overthrow their government and promising joint action to prevent Iran from becoming a nuclear power. Israel's defense minister has declared a state of emergency across Israel.

In February 2026, reports emerged that Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was killed in joint US-Israeli air strikes on his compound in Iran. Khamenei assumed leadership in 1989 after the death of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, who led the Islamic Revolution. While Khomeini provided the revolution's ideology, Khamenei developed Iran's military and paramilitary forces, extending its influence beyond its borders. His distrust of the West, particularly the United States, stemmed from the Iran-Iraq War in the 1980s, during which Western countries supported Saddam Hussein. This shaped his belief that Iran needed constant defense against external and internal threats, leading to the rise of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a powerful institution.

A fire at a hotel in Dubai's Palm Jumeirah area injured four people following a reported loud explosion on Saturday. The incident occurred amidst Iranian retaliatory strikes in the Middle East, though authorities have not explicitly confirmed a connection. The Dubai Media Office stated the fire was contained and the site secured, emphasizing public safety. Authorities are urging calm and advising the public to rely on official information sources. Emergency response teams responded to the incident, the cause of which remains unconfirmed by Dubai officials.

Following reported Israeli strikes targeting Iranian leadership infrastructure in Tehran, the fate of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is currently unknown. The strikes heavily damaged Khamenei's fortified compound, including his residence and the House of Leadership, with some areas reduced to rubble. While Israeli officials are assessing the results and haven't confirmed Khamenei's death, they haven't ruled it out. Iranian officials insist Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian are safe, despite what they call an assassination attempt. Reports indicate a high-level meeting may have been underway at the time of the strike. Khamenei, who operates with tight security and a network of loyalists, has survived previous assassination attempts and unrest.

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.