Iran Accuses U.S. of Deliberately Targeting Civilians as Conflict Escalates

TEHRAN — Iran has intensified its accusations against the United States, alleging that American military strikes have deliberately targeted civilians and civilian infrastructure as the conflict between Washington and Tehran continues.

Iranian officials have previously accused the U.S. of striking locations including residential areas, schools, hospitals and other civilian sites. In September, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baqaei accused Washington of “deliberately attacking civilian targets,” while arguing that Iran’s own attacks were directed at U.S.-linked military positions.

The allegations have drawn renewed attention as fighting continues to spread across the region. The United States has rejected claims that it intentionally targets civilians. Vice President JD Vance said the U.S. does not target civilians, while also saying American officials were investigating reports surrounding alleged civilian casualties.

The dispute comes amid mounting international concern over the humanitarian consequences of the conflict. Human Rights Watch previously reported that a February attack on a primary school in Minab killed at least 175 people, including many children, while noting that the U.S. military’s initial assessment indicated its forces were likely responsible.

Iran’s latest accusations are likely to add another layer to an already bitter confrontation between the two governments. With military operations continuing and diplomatic efforts facing uncertainty, competing claims over civilian casualties are becoming an increasingly important part of the wider conflict.

For now, the key question remains: were civilians deliberately targeted, or were reported civilian deaths the result of attacks aimed at military or strategic targets? Independent investigations and additional evidence will be needed to establish the circumstances surrounding individual incidents.