Iran Forensic Authority Reports 3,375 Killed in 40-Day Conflict with U.S., Israel
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TEHRAN, April 20 (AP) — Iran's Legal Medicine Organization announced Monday that at least 3,375 people, including hundreds of children, were killed during a 40-day military conflict involving the United States and Israel.
Abbas Masjedi, head of the Iranian forensic authority, provided the casualty figures during a press conference in Tehran. The deaths occurred across several provinces, with significant losses reported in Tehran, Isfahan, Hormozgan, and Minab. Masjedi described the conflict as an unprovoked war of aggression.
The 40-day period of hostilities marked a significant escalation in regional tensions. Iranian officials stated that the military actions were directed by the United States and Israel against Iranian territory. The forensic authority confirmed that the death toll includes civilians and combatants, though a specific breakdown was not immediately provided.
The announcement comes as the region remains on high alert. Iranian state media has broadcast footage of damage in affected areas, showing destroyed infrastructure and residential buildings. The government has called for international condemnation of the attacks.
The United States and Israel have not issued official statements regarding the casualty figures or the duration of the conflict. Neither nation has publicly acknowledged the 40-day war described by Iranian officials. The lack of confirmation from Washington and Jerusalem leaves the scope and nature of the military engagement unclear.
Humanitarian groups are assessing the impact on civilian populations in the hardest-hit provinces. Hospitals in Tehran and Isfahan reported being overwhelmed in the immediate aftermath of the fighting. Aid organizations are working to provide medical supplies and support to displaced families.
The conflict has raised concerns about further instability in the Middle East. Neighboring countries have expressed worry about the potential for the violence to spread. Diplomatic efforts are underway to de-escalate tensions, though no formal peace talks have been announced.
Iranian authorities have vowed to continue investigating the attacks. Masjedi stated that the forensic team is still processing remains and verifying additional casualties. The final death toll may rise as more bodies are identified.
The international community is awaiting further details before responding. The United Nations has called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and an independent investigation into the events. Security analysts are monitoring the situation closely, noting that the reported casualties represent one of the deadliest incidents in the region in recent years.
Questions remain regarding the specific military operations conducted during the 40-day period. The extent of damage to critical infrastructure and the involvement of other regional actors are still being assessed. As the situation develops, further updates are expected from all parties involved.