Introduction
The recent emergence of a video has brought to light new evidence regarding a US airstrike at the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) naval base in Minab, Iran. This video appears to show significant military activity near an elementary school, which tragically resulted in the loss of over 160 pupils on February 28, according to Iranian sources.
New video appears to confirm US airstrike on IRGC base adjacent to Minab school
A recent video appears to depict a US airstrike targeting a building at the IRGC naval base adjacent to the Minab elementary school, where more than 160 pupils lost their lives on February 28, as reported by Iranian state media.
This video, released by Mehr News, a semi-official Iranian news outlet, is the first to capture missiles impacting the area. It adds support to a range of evidence challenging recent assertions by US President Donald Trump, who placed blame on Iran.
The footage, taken from a nearby construction site, clearly shows what is likely an American BGM or UGM-109 Tomahawk Land Attack Missile (TLAM) striking a location within the IRGC base. The US Navy employs Tomahawk missiles, which can be launched from surface ships and submarines, while experts confirm that Israel does not utilize this particular missile type.
As the camera shifts, a large plume of smoke is visible emanating from the direction of the Shajareh Tayyiba elementary school in Minab, with multiple individuals seen fleeing the vicinity.
Sam Lair, a research associate at the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies, informed CNN that the munition in the video appears consistent with a US Tomahawk Land Attack Missile (TLAM):
Other munitions experts who spoke to CNN echoed this assessment, noting that TLAMs are frequently employed in the initial phases of military operations prior to gaining air supremacy. Although the exact structure struck has not been confirmed, CNN’s analysis indicates it was likely a building within or adjacent to an IRGC-operated medical clinic at the base.
Investigations by both CNN and other news outlets last week indicated that the US was likely responsible for the strike. Various evidence types, including satellite imagery, geolocated videos, and public statements from US officials, pointed to the likelihood that the school was affected at the same time as an assault on a neighboring IRGC naval facility.
The US Department of Defense did not comment immediately when inquired about the utilization of a Tomahawk missile on Sunday. In previous statements made to CNN, US Central Command remarked that “it would be inappropriate to comment given the incident is under investigation.”
The newly surfaced video indicates smoke in the vicinity of the strike, suggesting that other locations may have also been targeted shortly beforehand. Lair mentioned that “the geolocated video shows a cruise missile hitting one of the centrally located buildings at the base,” suggesting the strike could have impacted the school as part of a broader attack involving similar munitions.
CNN is presently working to gather images of the remnants of the munition that struck the school. Such evidence is critical for determining responsibility for the attack, as assessments remain inconclusive in its absence.
On Saturday, Trump assigned blame to Iran for the Minab strike, contrasting findings from CNN and other news organizations.
“Based on what I’ve seen, that was done by Iran,” Trump remarked to reporters aboard Air Force One, while further describing Iranian munitions as “very inaccurate.”
When asked about the veracity of his claims, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth replied, “We’re certainly investigating. But the only side that targets civilians is Iran.”
The White House has not ruled out the possibility that US military personnel executed the strike. Iranian state media has attributed blame for the Minab school strike to the US.
Key Takeaways
- A new video appears to confirm a US airstrike targeting an IRGC naval base near an elementary school in Minab.
- Over 160 pupils were reportedly killed in the February 28 incident, as stated by Iranian media.
- The video supports evidence contradicting President Trump’s claims that Iran was responsible for the attack.
- Experts believe the munitions used were likely American Tomahawk missiles.
- Investigative efforts are ongoing to establish definitive accountability for the strike.
FAQ
What does the video show?
The video displays a missile strike at the IRGC naval base, situated near a school where numerous casualties occurred.
What type of missile is believed to have been used?
Experts indicate that the missile shown in the video closely resembles a US Tomahawk Land Attack Missile.
What is the current US stance on the airstrike?
The US Department of Defense has not commented extensively, stating the incident is under investigation.
How has Iran reacted to the airstrike?
Iranian authorities have attributed responsibility for the strike to the US, contradicting claims made by President Trump.
Conclusion
The emergence of this video has sparked renewed discussions about the roles of the US and Iran in this tragic event. As investigations continue, the search for accountability remains critical amidst conflicting narratives surrounding the incident.
