Trump says no one ‘purposefully’ targeted Iranian girls’ school as US probe continues

Trump Denies Intentional Attack on Iranian Girls’ School Amid Ongoing US Inquiry

Trump says no one purposefully targeted – During a press briefing at the G7 Summit 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump asserted that no party intentionally targeted a girls’ school in Iran during the February 28 conflict. This remark came as a military investigation into the incident continues to analyze the circumstances of the strike.

Trump emphasized that the event is still under review, stating, “That’s under investigation.” He reiterated, “Nobody did that on purpose,” suggesting the attack may have been a result of error rather than deliberate action. The president also acknowledged that mistakes can occur during wartime, though he did not confirm or deny the probe’s current conclusions.

Deadly Strike Remains Under Scrutiny

The strike, which occurred on February 28—the first day of hostilities involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran—has sparked significant debate. Initially, Iranian officials reported over 175 students and teachers killed by a missile hitting a primary school in Minab. However, updated figures from state media this week lowered the casualty count to 155.

According to the revised breakdown, 73 boys, 47 girls, 26 teachers, seven parents, a school bus driver, and a pharmacy technician at a nearby clinic were among the victims. The incident has become one of the most contentious episodes of the conflict, prompting an in-depth US military investigation.

US Military Investigation Underway

Reports from sources within the inquiry indicate early findings suggest a U.S. Tomahawk cruise missile might have struck the school due to a targeting miscalculation. While the Pentagon has intensified the probe, it has not yet publicly confirmed these preliminary conclusions.

Brad Cooper, head of U.S. Central Command, testified last month that the investigation is intricate. He noted the school’s proximity to what U.S. officials describe as an active Iranian cruise missile facility. Archived records from the school’s website reportedly confirm its location adjacent to an Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) compound.

US authorities are also examining whether outdated intelligence played a role in the targeting process. This adds complexity to determining the cause of the strike, as the military seeks to clarify its sequence of events.

Iran Rejects US Explanation

Iran has contested the claim that the school was linked to a military site. Esmail Baghaei, a spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry, criticized the U.S. assertions as an effort to justify the attack. In a social media post, he wrote:

“This shameless distortion is a clear attempt to obscure the severe reality of the 28 February missile attacks, which resulted in the tragic slaughtering of over 170 school children and their teachers.”

Baghaei further accused the U.S. of violating international humanitarian law, stating,

“Targeting an active educational institution during school hours constitutes a grave violation of international humanitarian law and is a clear war crime.”

He called for accountability of U.S. officials and commanders involved in authorizing the strike under international law.

Iran Honors Victims During World Cup Campaign

The tragedy has become a powerful emblem within Iran. Earlier this week, Iranian authorities commemorated the Minab strike’s victims, and the national football team honored them by competing under the name “Minab 168” and wearing gold pins on their uniforms.

Officials stated the tribute reflects the nation’s commitment to remembering the students, teachers, and civilians who perished. The event has also fueled public sentiment against the U.S., with Iran positioning the attack as a symbol of its resolve.

Trump Awaits Final Findings

Trump initially hinted that Iran might be responsible for the strike but later withdrew that claim, citing insufficient information. He has since expressed confidence that the investigation should proceed to reach a definitive conclusion.