Tragedy in Iran: 34 Killed as Airstrikes Devastate Homes and Schools

At least 34 people, including six children, have been killed after widespread airstrikes carried out by the United States and Israel struck multiple locations across Iran, including universities, infrastructure, and residential areas. The attacks have escalated an already volatile conflict that began in late February, drawing international concern over civilian safety and regional stability.

Among the sites hit were major academic institutions in Tehran. Sharif University of Technology, often referred to as Iran’s equivalent of MIT, sustained damage to its laboratories and campus mosque. Shahid Beheshti University also suffered significant destruction, prompting inspections by Iran’s Science Minister Hossein Simaee Sarraf. Media reports indicated that nearby infrastructure, including roads, power plants, and a gas facility, was also targeted, causing widespread disruption.

Casualties were reported across several regions. In Baharestan County, 23 people, including six children, were killed, while five deaths occurred in Qom and six in Bandar-e Lengeh. Strikes were recorded in Bandar Abbas, Ahvaz, Shiraz, Isfahan, and Karaj, highlighting the wide geographic spread of the attacks. Iran’s Ministry of Science stated that at least 30 universities have been hit since the conflict began, intensifying fears over the disruption of academic and research activities.

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Iranian officials condemned the attacks, with First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref describing a “bunker-buster” strike on Sharif University as symbolic of aggression, but insisting that Iran’s intellectual strength cannot be destroyed. Separately, Iran confirmed the death of IRGC intelligence chief Seyyed Majid Khademi in a targeted operation, further heightening tensions.

Humanitarian concerns are mounting. Jagan Chapagain of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies reported that multiple ambulances were hit, with four volunteers killed while carrying out rescue operations. Aid agencies warned that continued strikes on populated areas and critical infrastructure risk exacerbating a growing humanitarian crisis.

The situation around the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz has also escalated, with US President Donald Trump warning of further strikes if the waterway is not reopened. Tehran has rejected external pressure and vowed retaliation, raising concerns about potential broader regional and economic consequences, including threats to global energy supplies and shipping routes.

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