Tehran, May 06 (V7N) — A deadly airstrike on a school in southern Iran has triggered global outrage and renewed scrutiny over accountability, as the Pentagon continues to delay releasing its investigation report more than two months after the incident.

The strike took place on February 28 in the city of Minab, where a facility identified as the Shajarah Tayyiba Elementary School was hit during what was reportedly a U.S. military operation targeting a nearby Iranian base. The attack resulted in the deaths of at least 168 students, teachers, and staff, according to multiple reports.

The incident is believed to have occurred during a broader escalation involving the United States and Israel against Iran. While the intended target was reportedly a military installation, U.S. officials later acknowledged that outdated intelligence may have contributed to a targeting error.

Despite initial assurances from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth that an investigation was underway, no final report has been made public. The Pentagon has only stated that the matter remains “under investigation,” with further details to be released upon completion.

The delay has drawn criticism from former U.S. officials, including military legal experts, who argue that the lack of transparency is unusual compared to past administrations. They have raised concerns about the absence of clear information regarding U.S. involvement in the strike.

International human rights group Amnesty International has condemned the attack, stating that targeting a school and causing mass civilian casualties may constitute a violation of international humanitarian law. The organization has called for an independent and transparent investigation.

Meanwhile, media outlets such as CNN and The New York Times have reported that early assessments suggest the strike may have been carried out inadvertently by U.S. forces, though no official conclusion has been confirmed.

Iran has accused Washington of committing a “war crime,” citing alleged evidence including missile debris bearing U.S. markings. However, U.S. President Donald Trump denied responsibility at the time, suggesting that Iran itself could have been behind the strike due to what he described as inaccurate weapon systems.

As pressure mounts from lawmakers and international observers, questions remain over whether the Pentagon will release its findings and whether accountability will be established for one of the deadliest incidents involving civilian casualties in recent years.

END/SMA/AJ