Damage to historical sites in Iran raises alarm about war’s impact on protected places

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.

Recent US and Israeli airstrikes in Iran have resulted in significant damage, including to the UNESCO-listed Golestan Palace in Tehran. The strikes, which began on Saturday, have targeted numerous government and military sites, reportedly killing nearly 800 people. Iranian media reports that the Golestan Palace sustained damage to windows, doors, and mirrors due to the reverberations from blasts targeting Arag Square. UNESCO confirmed the damage and stated that it had provided the coordinates of World Heritage sites to all parties involved to prevent such incidents. The US military claims to have hit nearly 2,000 targets inside Iran since the operation began.

In March 2026, an air attack struck the Assembly of Experts building in Qom, Iran. NewsFeedVideos documented the destruction following the attack. The Assembly of Experts is a significant body responsible for selecting the successor to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, who was assassinated. Qom, the location of the Assembly building, is situated south of Tehran. The attack's impact on the Assembly's operations or the succession process remains unclear.

Iran has postponed a planned farewell ceremony for its late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in US-Israeli strikes on Saturday. The three-day program was scheduled to begin Wednesday at 10 p.m. local time at Imam Khomeini Prayer Hall, where large crowds were expected to gather. The postponement followed widespread requests to participate and the need for adequate infrastructure and facilities. No additional reason for the postponement was given, and it is unclear when the ceremony will be rescheduled. Ayatollah Khamenei's death triggers a closely watched succession process overseen by Iran's Assembly of Experts, which will heavily influence its outcome. The ceremony's postponement comes amid heightened tensions between Iran and Israel.

In a video report dated March 3, 2026, *The New York Times* addresses the question of who is in charge of Iran's government following airstrikes that killed Supreme Leader Khamenei and other defense and security officials. Erika Solomon, the bureau chief for Iran and Iraq, provides information about the situation. The report aims to clarify the power structure in Iran after this significant event and identify potential successors or governing bodies. The video report is accompanied by contributions from Nikolay Nikolov, Jon Miller, Stephanie Swart, Rafaela Balster, Samuel Granados, and Christina Shaman.

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.

The Middle East conflict intensified as Israel and the US launched strikes against Iran, targeting command facilities, state offices, and missile sites. Iran retaliated with missile and drone attacks on Israel and US interests across the Gulf region. The escalating violence has resulted in hundreds of deaths and billions of dollars in damage, primarily in Iran, raising concerns about a global economic crisis due to soaring energy prices. US President Trump stated he rejected Iran's attempt to negotiate and claimed significant damage to Iranian infrastructure. Iran denied seeking negotiations and called on the UN Security Council to intervene, while threatening further retaliation against the US and Israel. The conflict expanded with attacks on key Iranian sites, including a building used by the committee that chooses the Supreme Leader's successor.

Amidst escalating conflict, Iran faces significant internal turmoil. US airstrikes have caused substantial casualties and targeted key government buildings in Tehran and Qom, including the Assembly of Experts, the body responsible for selecting a new supreme leader after the assassination of Ali Khamenei. The attacks have disrupted government functions and fueled a power struggle over the future direction of the country. Israel appears to have air superiority over Tehran, further destabilizing the situation. The chaos raises questions about the survival of the Iranian government and the evolving objectives of the US military intervention.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Thousands of mourners gathered in Tehran on Sunday following the death of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in a US-Israeli attack. The attack, which began on Saturday, aimed to overthrow the Iranian government. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) vowed a severe retaliation against the US and Israel, threatening a major operation targeting both countries and their regional bases. Further explosions were reported in Doha, Dubai, and Manama, and sirens sounded in Israel as the Israeli military responded to Iranian missile fire. President Trump warned of unprecedented force against Iran if it retaliates. Khamenei had been Iran's supreme leader since 1989.

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.

Following strikes by Israel and the US on Saturday, celebrations erupted in the UK, Spain, and the United States. The cause for celebration was the reported death of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, during the attacks across Iran. The strikes began on Saturday morning local time. Iranian state TV later confirmed the death of the 86-year-old leader, who had held power for three decades. The attacks and subsequent death of Khamenei are significant due to his long-standing rule and the potential impact on Iranian politics and regional stability.

Following reports of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's death, contrasting reactions emerged across Iran. While some Iranians gathered in Tehran to mourn the Supreme Leader, others celebrated in the streets and on social media. Celebrations included dancing, fireworks, and expressions of joy over the demise of the leader who ruled for 36 years. These contrasting responses highlight deep divisions within the country, particularly among those who experienced the regime's crackdown on recent protests, during which thousands were killed, injured, or arrested. The celebrations reflect a sense of vengeance and relief for some Iranians affected by the violence.

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 Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in U.S. and Israeli strikes on Sunday, March 1, 2026, some Iranians celebrated openly in the streets. However, many also expressed fear and uncertainty about the country's future. State media showed large crowds mourning Khamenei, while some who participated in past anti-government protests said the security presence was too strong for new demonstrations. The Basij paramilitary was heavily present in Tehran, suppressing public displays of celebration. The strikes, which also killed top military leaders, have stirred complex emotions within a divided Iranian society, leaving people living "between hope and fear."

On February 28, 2026, an Israeli strike hit an elementary girls' school in Minab, southern Iran, killing at least 53 people and injuring 63, according to Iranian state media. This attack is part of a larger wave of joint US-Israeli military actions across Iran. Separately, another Israeli attack east of Tehran reportedly killed at least two students. Iranian officials condemned the attacks, with the Foreign Minister sharing a photo of the destroyed school and vowing retaliation. The Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson urged action from the United Nations Security Council, while Al Jazeera reported the attacks contradict claims of targeting only military sites.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's Supreme Leader since 1989, has reportedly died following an Israeli strike on a compound in Tehran. A senior Israeli official confirmed the death to Fox News Digital. Khamenei, born in 1939, played a key role in the 1979 Iranian Revolution and served as president before becoming Supreme Leader. During his rule, he consolidated power, oversaw crackdowns on dissent, and maintained a hardline stance against the U.S. and Israel. His leadership faced challenges, including mass protests in 2009 and 2022, which were met with brutal suppression. Khamenei's death marks the end of his over three-decade reign as the longest-serving autocrat in the Middle East.

Reports from Iranian state media indicate that at least 80 children were killed in a missile strike on the Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ school in Minab, southern Iran, on Saturday. The attack occurred during a joint US-Israel operation, according to the report. Videos circulating online, verified by some sources, show the aftermath of the strike, with smoke rising from the damaged school. The school is reportedly located near a Revolutionary Guards barracks. Across Iran, the attacks have caused widespread fear and a mix of hope and concern about potential political change and civilian casualties. In Tehran, schools were shut down and residents sought shelter or attempted to reach their children.

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.