A United Nations fact-finding mission stated Thursday that there are “reasonable grounds” to believe U.S. forces committed war crimes during the conflict with Iran, specifically citing indiscriminate attacks on civilian populations and infrastructure.
The Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on Iran highlighted two specific incidents in its report. The first involved a Tomahawk missile strike on a primary school in the city of Minab, which resulted in the deaths of more than 150 people. The mission determined that the school was the intended target and that the damage was not caused by an errant strike or collateral damage from an attack on a nearby Revolutionary Guard compound. Experts noted they found no evidence the school was being used for military purposes at the time.
A second incident cited involved missiles striking a “clearly identifiable sports complex and residential area,” killing 22 civilians.
In response, a State Department official rejected the report’s conclusions, stating the U.S. does not give credibility to the findings. The official accused the UN council of promoting “anti-American rhetoric and antisemitism” and argued that it “appeases repressive regimes.” Additionally, White House spokesperson Anna Kelly told the Associated Press that “the only party in this conflict that has committed war crimes is the Iranian regime.” CNBC reached out to the Pentagon for comment but had not received a response.
The report also accused Iran of human rights violations and crimes against humanity. This comes six months after President Donald Trump withdrew the U.S. from the UN Human Rights Council in February 2025, citing that the body acted contrary to American interests.
Amidst the diplomatic friction, hopes for renewed negotiations regarding the Middle East conflict appear to be increasing. According to a report by MS NOW, government officials indicated that a meeting involving Gulf Arab nations, the United States, and Iran could occur around the time of the United Nations General Assembly next week. The U.S. has approved travel for the Iranian delegation to attend the assembly, though a State Department spokesperson confirmed the group will face travel restrictions and a ban on purchasing luxury goods. The Iranian delegation is expected to include President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.
Negotiations while war crimes allegations fly? Sounds like a recipe for a sham peace deal.
Wait, does this report also criticize the Iranian regime’s human rights record? Seems like they’re trying to be balanced.
Does it ever surprise me that the State Dept dismisses anything negative about the US? Predictable as always.
The casualty figures at that school are heartbreaking. Hope the facts lead to accountability, not just more rhetoric.