A recent investigation by the United Nations on Iran has raised serious concerns, suggesting that the United States may have been involved in two military strikes on a school and sports facility in Iran in February, potentially constituting war crimes. The report also highlights alleged crimes against humanity committed by Iranian authorities during a crackdown on anti-government protests that preceded the airstrikes.
The Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on Iran, in its latest report to be presented to the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, examined the actions of the U.S. during the Iran conflict that started in February and Iran’s response to nationwide unrest that began in late December. Both the Iranian and U.S. permanent missions in Geneva have not yet commented on these findings.
According to the report, the mission found evidence suggesting U.S. forces were responsible for an attack on a primary school in Minab, resulting in numerous casualties, including schoolchildren. The mission concluded that this attack was indiscriminate and violated international law by causing civilian deaths and damaging civilian infrastructure.
Moreover, the report mentioned a separate strike on a sports center in Lamerd, Iran, which led to civilian casualties and infrastructure damage. While U.S. Central Command denied launching strikes in Lamerd, the UN experts labeled this incident as a war crime due to its indiscriminate nature.
On the other hand, the investigation exposed the Iranian authorities’ alleged systematic violations of human rights during the protests, including unlawful killings, torture, arbitrary detentions, enforced disappearances, and restrictions on freedom of expression. The report indicated that the death toll and injuries from the protests were likely higher than official figures, marking a significant escalation in the government’s response compared to previous dissent suppression tactics.
The report also highlighted the escalating tensions between the U.S. and Iran, with the U.S. claiming adherence to the laws of armed conflict while Iran consistently denying any systematic rights violations. This investigation sheds light on the complexities and alleged violations surrounding the conflicts in Iran, calling for further scrutiny and accountability.
