The United Nations Human Rights Council approved Iran’s request for an urgent debate. The session will focus on the February 28 airstrike in Minab. Iran submitted the request through its permanent mission. Meanwhile, China and Cuba co-sponsored it. The council approved the request by consensus during Wednesday’s session.
The debate is scheduled for March 27. It will examine the human rights and humanitarian consequences of the attack. Furthermore, it will address civilian protection in armed conflict. Iranian diplomat Somayeh Karimdoost addressed the council. She described the strike as a serious violation of international law. She said a U.S. Tomahawk missile struck Shajareh Tayyebeh elementary school during class hours.
The strike killed 168 children aged seven to twelve. Additionally, many others suffered injuries. Karimdoost emphasized that schools and educational facilities enjoy full protection under international humanitarian law. She stated that attacks on functioning schools qualify as war crimes under Article 8 of the Rome Statute. Moreover, she urged the council to demand that the United States and Israel stop targeting civilians immediately.
The U.S. military described the strike as a “targeting mistake.” However, Iranian officials rejected this explanation. They argued the strike occurred on the first day of the U.S.-Israeli campaign and followed a pattern of attacks on civilian infrastructure. The March 27 debate will mark the second urgent session in a single week. As a result, the council has intensified its focus on civilian protection. The Minab school attack quickly became a symbol of civilian suffering. Video footage showed debris, bloodied textbooks, and rescuers recovering children from the rubble.
Iranian representatives highlighted that the session will focus on protecting children and schools during armed conflict. They plan to present evidence of deliberate strikes on hospitals, schools, and residential areas. Additionally, human rights groups and legal experts may testify. Observers noted that the debate could influence future UN measures on civilian protection.
Furthermore, it may pressure countries to comply strictly with international humanitarian law. Analysts also said it could shape Iran’s diplomatic strategy. Independent investigations and international scrutiny are likely to follow. Consequently, the session may raise global awareness of attacks on civilians. The Iran school attack has reinforced the importance of protecting children and educational institutions in conflict zones.