In recent developments, Iranian authorities have urged the global community to take action following airstrikes by the United States and Israel that have struck hospitals and schools across Iran. Esmaeil Baghaei, a spokesperson for the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, condemned these attacks, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the strikes that have targeted civilian infrastructure.
International Urgency After Attacks on Hospitals and Schools
Baghaei emphasized that the strikes have resulted in significant damage to vital facilities, including hospitals, schools, and Red Crescent locations. He labeled these actions as crimes of international concern, warning that ignoring such acts would jeopardize shared human values.
Red Crescent Society’s Call for Action
Pir Hossein Kolivand, the head of the Iranian Red Crescent Society, also expressed concern, calling for the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to condemn these attacks explicitly. He urged the ICRC to implement monitoring mechanisms as outlined in the Geneva Conventions to prevent further incidents.
- Kolivand stated that damaged facilities have no military applications.
- He emphasized the commitment of the Red Crescent Society to the principles of humanity and impartiality.
Damage to Medical Facilities
Reports indicate that multiple hospitals in Tehran, including Gandhi Hospital, sustained significant damage due to the airstrikes. Authorities have evacuated several medical facilities in response to the strikes, although there have been no confirmed direct hits on hospitals.
- The in-vitro fertilization department at Gandhi Hospital was reported destroyed.
- Footage showed significant destruction and affected medical operations.
The World Health Organization has characterized the damage to hospitals as “extremely worrying” and is currently assessing the situation.
Casualties from Strikes on Schools
Tragically, the attacks have also impacted educational institutions. A recent airstrike in Narmak damaged a high school, resulting in at least two fatalities among children. Additionally, a strike in Minab led to the death of 165 individuals, primarily children, with 95 others injured.
- Education International condemned the attack on schools, calling it a severe violation of human rights.
- The organization stressed that educational facilities must never be military targets.
As the situation escalates, Iranian authorities reported that over 555 people have been killed across 131 counties due to ongoing attacks. The need for international intervention grows more pressing as civilians continue to bear the brunt of the conflict.
