#JUSTIN: Death Toll Rises to 24 in Israeli Strike on Iranian School, Iran Vows Retaliation
Israeli airstrikes on a Minab elementary school kill 24 students; Iran vows decisive retaliation.
The death toll from an Israeli strike on an elementary girls’ school in southern Iran has risen to 24, according to the state-affiliated Fars News Agency. Initial reports had cited five fatalities, but authorities confirmed the higher number on Saturday, highlighting the growing civilian impact of the ongoing regional escalation.
The strike in Minab, located in Hormozgan province, comes amid coordinated military operations by the United States and Israel targeting Iranian military infrastructure. The attack has intensified fears of further civilian casualties and prompted international calls for restraint.
Iran’s foreign ministry condemned the strikes, promising a “decisive” response. “The Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran will respond decisively to the aggressors,” the ministry said in a statement, emphasizing that Tehran had taken all measures to avoid war.
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The ministry also stressed Iran’s preparedness for both diplomacy and defense, saying, “Just as we were ready for negotiations, we are now more prepared than ever to defend the Iranian nation.” The statement reflects Tehran’s dual approach of pursuing nuclear talks while simultaneously preparing for military contingencies.
The strike has drawn international attention, with countries and organizations urging the protection of civilians amid escalating violence. Observers warn that attacks on civilian targets risk inflaming tensions further and could undermine diplomatic efforts in the region.
As regional military operations continue, analysts say the situation remains highly volatile. With the death toll rising and retaliatory threats issued, the potential for a broader conflict involving multiple Middle Eastern and global powers continues to grow, placing urgent pressure on international actors to seek de-escalation.
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