New Delhi : In a significant escalation of accusations amid the ongoing Iran–US conflict, the Iranian Embassy in India has released photographs of two U.S. Navy officers, alleging their direct involvement in a missile strike that killed 168 children in southern Iran.
Embassy Names Two Officers
According to official posts shared by the Iranian Embassy, the individuals identified are:
- Leigh R. Tate – Commanding Officer
- Jeffrey E. York – Executive Officer
Both officers are linked to the U.S. warship USS Spruance.
The embassy alleged that the two officers authorized multiple missile launches that led to the deadly strike on a girls’ school in Minab.
“Remember these two criminals… who ordered the launch of Tomahawk missiles,” the embassy said in a statement on social media.
Deadly Strike on School
The incident refers to the February 28 missile strike on the Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ school in Minab, which is among the deadliest civilian attacks in the ongoing war.
- At least 168–175 people were killed, most of them schoolchildren
- The building was largely destroyed, trapping students under debris
- The attack occurred on the first day of large-scale military operations
International investigations and visual evidence suggest the strike was caused by a Tomahawk cruise missile, commonly used by U.S. forces.
Iran Calls It a ‘War Crime’
Iran has strongly condemned the attack, calling it a violation of international law.
The strike was described by Iranian officials as an “unjustifiable” and “criminal” act.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry has also shared video footage of the aftermath and demanded global accountability, urging international bodies to investigate the incident.
US Response
The United States has denied deliberately targeting civilians and stated that it is reviewing the incident.
Reports indicate that U.S. officials have suggested the possibility of faulty or outdated intelligence, while also disputing Iran’s claims.
Global Reactions
The attack has triggered widespread international concern:
- India expressed “profound grief” over the deaths of children
- Human rights organizations have called for a war crimes investigation
- Analysts warn the incident could further escalate the already volatile regional conflict
Wider Context
The Minab school strike occurred amid the broader 2026 Iran war, involving the United States, Israel, and regional actors. The conflict has already resulted in thousands of casualties and widespread destruction, with civilian infrastructure increasingly affected.
Conclusion
By publicly naming and releasing images of the accused officers, Iran has intensified its diplomatic and information campaign against the United States. With both sides maintaining conflicting narratives, the demand for an independent international investigation continues to grow.
