Tehran: Human Rights Watch has demanded an investigation into a deadly attack on a primary school in southern Iran, urging that the strike be examined as a potential war crime, according to media reports on Sunday.
According to Anadolu Agency, the attack on February 28 resulted in the deaths of at least 160 individuals, primarily schoolchildren, amidst a series of attacks across Iran linked to a US-Israeli military operation. Sophia Jones, an open source researcher at the group's Digital Investigations Lab, emphasized the need for accountability, stating that those responsible for unlawful attacks should face prosecution for war crimes.
Jones further stressed the importance of a comprehensive investigation to ascertain whether the attackers were aware of the school's presence. She noted that it is crucial to determine if the perpetrators should have known that the school would be occupied by children and teachers during the day, as reported by Al Jazeera.
The assault on the school marked the beginning of a wider military campaign targeting various locations throughout Iran. An investigation by Al Jazeera suggested that the school was deliberately targeted. Additionally, The New York Times reported that the strike was 'most likely' conducted by the United States.
In response to questions on Saturday regarding US involvement, President Donald Trump denied any responsibility, attributing the attack to Iran without providing evidence. Human Rights Watch reiterated the necessity for accountability through a thorough investigation, Al Jazeera reported.
The incident has heightened regional tensions since the United States and Israel initiated large-scale attacks on Iran on February 28, resulting in over 1,000 casualties, including Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, more than 150 schoolgirls, and senior military officials. In retaliation, Iran has launched extensive strikes on US bases, diplomatic facilities, and military personnel across the region, as well as on multiple Israeli cities.
