US investigation suggests likely responsibility in Iran school strike, sources say

United States military investigators have indicated that it is likely US forces were responsible for a reported strike on a girls’ school in Minab, Iran, which resulted in the deaths of numerous children on Saturday, familiar with the matter. The incident, which occurred on March 2, 2026, has prompted an ongoing investigation by the US military.

Two US officials, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the situation, stated that while the investigation has not yet reached a final conclusion, the preliminary assessment points toward probable US involvement. The officials emphasized that the findings are not yet definitive, and new evidence could emerge that might absolve the US of responsibility or identify another party as responsible for the strike.

Graves are being prepared for the victims in Minab following the incident. The exact number of casualties has not been confirmed in the available reports, but sources describe the loss as significant, with scores of children killed in the apparent strike.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth acknowledged on Wednesday that the US military was actively investigating the incident. However, details regarding the evidence that led to the current assessment, the type of munition used, or the specific circumstances surrounding the strike have not been disclosed. It remains unclear how long the investigation will take or what additional information investigators are seeking.

If US responsibility is confirmed, the strike would be among the worst incidents of civilian casualties involving US forces in the Middle East in recent decades. The situation remains fluid as the investigation continues, and officials have not ruled out the possibility that further findings could change the current assessment.

Statements from US officials and press representatives have not provided further details about the rationale behind the strike or the intended target. The investigation is ongoing, and updates are expected as more information becomes available.