US, Israel attack Iran: 24 students killed at school in strike, claims Iran

Israeli strikes hit a school in the southern Iranian province of Hormozgan, near the strategic Strait of Hormuz, killing 24 students, a provincial official reported, according to state media. The county governor confirmed that the fatalities occurred at Shajare Tayyebeh Elementary School in Minab, Hormozgan, following earlier reports attributing the deaths to Israeli strikes. This attack marks a sharp escalation in the ongoing conflict in the region, raising concerns about the targeting of civilian areas and educational institutions, and drawing international attention to the volatile situation along one of the world's most important maritime routes.

Also Read: Houthis to resume attacks on shipping routes and Israel ‘tonight’, say officials of rebel group

In a related escalation, the United Arab Emirates reported that a civilian was killed in Iranian strikes on Abu Dhabi. The UAE Ministry of Defence stated that missile debris from Iranian ballistic missiles fell in a residential area, resulting in one civilian death of Asian nationality and some material damage. The Ministry highlighted the efficiency of UAE air defence systems, noting that they "dealt with the missiles with high efficiency and successfully intercepted a number of missiles." Authorities emphasised that, despite the attack, "the security situation in the UAE remains stable and that all concerned entities are monitoring developments around the clock."

The UAE strongly condemned the attacks, asserting that "the targeting represents a blatant violation of national sovereignty and international law," and described them as "a dangerous escalation and a cowardly act that threatens the safety of civilians and undermines stability." The Ministry affirmed that the UAE "reserves its full right to respond to this escalation and to take all necessary measures to protect its territory, citizens and residents, and to safeguard its sovereignty, security and stability." It added that the country is fully prepared to confront any threats and that "the safety of citizens, residents and visitors remains a top priority that cannot be compromised." Finally, the Ministry urged the public “to rely on official sources for information and to avoid spreading rumors or unverified reports.”