In Focus

Is anyone else feeling a sense of déjà vu, or is it just me? The U.S. is once again involved in conflict in the Middle East. I often catch myself saying “Iraq” instead of “Iran” because the events in Iraq are still fresh in my mind, just like for many of you.

The U.S. and Israel have teamed up to carry out strikes on Iran. They say this is due to ongoing worries about Iran’s nuclear program, missile development, and military influence in the region, which they see as direct threats to both Israel and U.S. forces. Officials argue that talks have failed to stop Iran from advancing its nuclear capabilities. Intelligence reports indicated a chance to weaken Iran’s military leadership, missile systems, and nuclear facilities through this coordinated military action. The operation, planned for months, is described by both countries as a preemptive effort to prevent future attacks and limit Iran’s power through its regional allies.

Sadly, many of us suspected that something would happen once the Olympics ended. It turned into a waiting game until the bombs were dropped, and Iran’s retaliation against U.S. and Israeli bases was expected. I find the reasons for this operation questionable, especially since Israel is dealing with its own issues in Gaza and with terrorist groups. The most disturbing part is that a girls’ school was bombed, leading to the deaths of over 100 children and teachers.

As I write this, we are not officially at war—only Congress can declare war (Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution). The President, as Commander-in-Chief (Article II), can direct the military to respond to immediate threats. The War Powers Resolution of 1973 was put in place to limit the president’s ability to engage in military action without approval: The President must inform Congress within 48 hours of sending forces, and military action cannot last more than 60 days (plus another 30 days for withdrawal) without Congressional approval.

This means that the U.S. is involved in active combat without a formal declaration of war, which is allowed temporarily but is politically controversial.

A girls’ elementary school in Minab, southern Iran, was hit by a missile during the ongoing military strikes. This occurred after tensions rose between the U.S., Israel, and Iran. Iranian officials say the bombing destroyed the Shajareh Tayyebeh girls’ school while students were there, injuring or killing hundreds of pupils, teachers, and others. Both Iranian officials and groups like UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) have condemned the attack on the school as a violation of international humanitarian law, which is meant to protect civilians, especially children and schools, during war.

It’s unclear who fired the missiles that hit the school. U.S. Central Command is investigating reports of civilian harm and insists it does not target civilians, but it has not confirmed responsibility. The Israeli military claims it is unaware of operations in that area. Whether the school was mistakenly targeted or located near a legitimate military target is still not known. Some reports indicate that the school is close to other facilities, but clear details on what was targeted and why remain vague.

International law requires that fighting parties take steps to avoid hurting civilians and investigate any civilian deaths that occur.

This tragic event highlights the human cost of war. Children, teachers, and communities suffer the most during these conflicts, reminding us all of the need for everyone to follow the rules of war designed to protect innocent lives. Humanitarian organizations and global leaders are calling for full transparency and measures to ensure the safety of civilians, especially children, during ongoing military operations.