Admiral Brad Cooper of U.S. Central Command has stated that the military cannot corroborate reports from The New York Times alleging the destruction of 22 Iranian schools and 17 healthcare facilities by U.S. airstrikes. During a Senate hearing, Cooper admitted that the military has not investigated these public claims, despite serious questions from Senator Kirsten Gillibrand about the lack of inquiry into such allegations.
Preliminary Findings and Denial
A preliminary internal investigation linked U.S. forces to a lethal strike on an Iranian girls' school, which Iran's ambassador to the UN claims killed 150 children. However, the Pentagon has significantly reduced the Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response office, raising concerns about the military's ability to prevent and investigate civilian casualties.
Senate Concerns
Senator Mark Kelly urged Admiral Cooper to restaff the Civilian Harm office, a suggestion Cooper dismissed as "hypothetical" pending further investigation results. The military's stance has drawn criticism from lawmakers and human rights groups, who argue that the lack of investigation undermines accountability and transparency.
The Defense Department's refusal to investigate these reports marks a significant departure from previous commitments to minimize civilian harm. The full extent of the damage and casualties remains unclear, but the allegations highlight ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Iran.
