Overview On 28 February 2025 , the United Nations panel of experts expressed deep concern over the death of more than 160 children after the bombing of the Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ school in Minab, southern Iran. The incident occurred on the first day of coordinated Iran‑Israel conflict involving U.S. and Israeli forces. Key Developments 2 March 2025 : U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that U.S. forces would not deliberately target a school. 3 March 2025 : The U.N. human rights office called for an investigation into the “deadly attack on a girls’ school in Iran”. 4 March 2025 : The Committee on the Rights of the Child warned that strikes on civilian infrastructure, including schools, have injured and traumatized children. 1 March 2025 : Iran’s ambassador to the U.N., Ali Bahreini , wrote to Volker Türk calling the attack “unjustifiable” and “criminal”. Israel announced that it is conducting an internal investigation into the incident. Important Facts The school, identified as the Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ school, was struck on the first day of the broader U.S.–Israeli offensive against Iranian targets. The Convention on the Rights of the Child obliges signatory states to protect children from violence, making the attack a potential breach of international law. UPSC Relevance 1. International Law & Human Rights : The incident highlights the application of the Convention on the Rights of the Child and the role of the Committee on the Rights of the Child in conflict zones. 2. India’s Foreign Policy : Understanding the dynamics of the Iran‑Israel conflict is crucial for GS2, as India balances its strategic ties with both nations. 3. Role of International Organizations : The response of the United Nations and its agencies illustrates mechanisms for accountability and humanitarian advocacy. Way Forward Demand a transparent, independent investigation to ascertain responsibility and ensure compliance with international humanitarian law. Strengthen diplomatic channels through the U.S. Secretary of State and other stakeholders to prevent civilian targets in future operations. Encourage the Committee on the Rights of the Child to monitor post‑incident rehabilitation for survivors and to advocate for stronger protection of educational institutions in conflict zones.