Iranian Schoolgirls Wear Angel Wings in Minab Tribute

MINAB, Iran — Iranian schoolgirls donned white angel wings Thursday in a somber tribute to students killed in a recent airstrike on an elementary school in the southern city. The demonstration, held outside the damaged school building, marked the second day of mourning following the attack that drew international condemnation.

The students, ranging in age from 8 to 14, gathered in the courtyard of the Minab Elementary School, which sustained significant structural damage in the strike. Many wore traditional school uniforms beneath the white fabric wings, which were attached to their backs with simple straps. The event was organized by local community leaders and school administrators to honor the children who lost their lives.

The airstrike, which occurred late Wednesday evening, targeted the school during evening classes. Iranian officials stated that the attack was carried out jointly by the United States and Israel, citing intelligence gathered from the scene. The strike resulted in the deaths of at least 12 students and three teachers, with dozens more injured. Emergency services rushed to the scene, transporting the wounded to nearby hospitals in Minab and Bandar Abbas.

Iranian authorities have condemned the attack as a violation of international law and a direct assault on education. The Ministry of Education announced a national day of mourning, with schools across the country closing for the remainder of the week. Flags at government buildings were lowered to half-staff in recognition of the victims.

The angel wings worn by the students symbolize the innocence of the children and their transition to the afterlife, a common motif in Iranian mourning rituals. Parents and relatives of the deceased joined the students in the courtyard, where a memorial service was held. Religious leaders recited prayers for the fallen, while community members placed flowers and candles at the entrance of the school.

The attack has heightened tensions in the region, with Iran vowing to investigate the incident and hold those responsible accountable. The United States and Israel have not officially commented on the strike, though both nations have denied involvement in targeting civilian infrastructure. The United Nations has called for an independent investigation into the incident, urging all parties to exercise restraint.

As the sun set over Minab, the students removed their wings and returned to their homes, leaving behind a quiet courtyard filled with the echoes of grief. The community continues to grapple with the loss, with questions remaining about the circumstances surrounding the attack and the identity of those who ordered it. Local officials have promised a full inquiry, but details on the timeline and findings remain unclear.