A recent investigation into a U.S. military strike on a school in Minab, Iran, revealed that the site had previously been part of a military base but had been converted into a school several years ago. This change was not updated in U.S. targeting databases prior to the commencement of air operations against Iranian targets, despite the building’s civilian use being listed on publicly accessible sources.
The strike has drawn criticism for the lack of transparency and accountability from the current U.S. administration. Former President Donald Trump initially suggested, without presenting evidence, that Iran was responsible for the incident, before stating that an investigation was underway. However, military officials confirm that the U.S. Central Command has completed its internal probe, known as an A.R. 15-6 investigation, which remains under review by various government agencies. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and 24 Democratic senators have formally requested the administration disclose the findings by July 20.
Experts note that while combat operations inherently involve risk and human error, the U.S. military has historically reacted to civilian casualties by promptly acknowledging mistakes and taking corrective actions. Retired U.S. Navy lawyer Todd Huntley emphasized that accepting responsibility is integral to maintaining the credibility of U.S. military actions. Similarly, retired General Joseph Votel, who commanded U.S. forces in the Middle East during the Trump administration’s first term, highlighted the importance of rapid information disclosure and addressing errors to prevent recurrence.
Critics point to significant reductions in the Pentagon’s Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response program during the Trump administration’s second term. The Defense Department’s inspector general warned that cuts to personnel and resources have brought the program close to inoperability, despite legal requirements to maintain such a mechanism. This downsizing has raised concerns in light of reports indicating that at least 1,700 Iranian civilians have died in the conflict, alongside damage to 22 schools and 17 healthcare facilities.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who has publicly expressed disdain for restrictive rules of engagement and prioritized "maximum lethality," has avoided detailed comments on the Minab strike, insisting that U.S. forces do not target civilian infrastructure. His stance, coupled with the administration’s refusal to release full investigation results, has fueled speculation among humanitarian organizations, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, about possible efforts to shield the government from allegations of violating international humanitarian law.
Observers argue that greater transparency could be achieved if the president publicly disclosed the investigation’s conclusions, extended an apology, and offered compensation for the damages and loss of life. Such responses echo actions taken by the Obama administration following a 2015 U.S. gunship strike on a hospital in Afghanistan, which resulted in disciplinary measures against service members.
As calls for accountability grow, questions remain about how the administration will address the tragic events in Minab, and whether it will uphold the standards of responsibility expected by both the American public and the international community.