Belarus Condemns Attack on Iranian School, Citing Dozens of Child Casualties

Minsk Expresses Shock and Condemnation

The Belarusian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) issued a statement on February 28, 2026, expressing profound shock and condemnation regarding an attack on a girls' school in the Iranian city of Minab. The ministry highlighted reports indicating the deaths of dozens of children in the incident, which occurred amidst an escalation of conflict in the Middle East.

In its statement, the Belarusian MFA 'strongly condemn any use of force that leads to civilian casualties, including through indiscriminate strikes.' The ministry specifically noted its shock 'by the reports from the Iranian city of Minab, where a strike on a girls' school killed dozens of children.' Initial reports from Iranian state media and other sources indicated that the death toll from the strike on the Shajareh Tayyebeh girls' school could be as high as 148 people, with victims reportedly between seven and 12 years old.

Call for Diplomatic Resolution

The Belarusian MFA extended its deepest condolences to the families of the victims, stating, 'At this difficult time, we extend our deepest condolences to the families of the victims; we sincerely mourn with them.' The ministry also posed a rhetorical question, asking 'how can the deaths of innocent girls, who dreamed of a future, bring any party closer to resolving even the most complex political issue?' It further emphasized its conviction that 'there is no and cannot be any goal that justifies the death of children.'

In light of the escalating violence, Belarus reiterated its call for all parties involved to 'return to resolving disagreements exclusively through political and diplomatic means.' The ministry stressed the importance of the international community making 'every effort to prevent civilian casualties and further escalation of violence.'

Context of Regional Tensions

The attack in Minab and Belarus's subsequent condemnation come amid reports of joint U.S. and Israeli military actions against Iran. Iran's Ministry of Foreign Affairs also criticized the United States and Israel for what it described as a sudden military strike, accusing them of violating the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity. This event adds to existing tensions in the region, which have seen various countries, including Azerbaijan and Kyrgyzstan, also express concern over the escalating situation.

Belarus and Iran have maintained strong diplomatic relations since 1992, with frequent high-level interactions and various agreements. Both nations are considered strategic allies of Russia and have often sought to counter Western sanctions and diversify their international engagements. Belarus has previously condemned US-Israeli attacks on Iranian facilities, underscoring a consistent stance on such actions.