Iran has accused the United States and Israel of committing a “war crime” after an Iranian aircraft, reportedly en route on a humanitarian mission to India, was damaged in a strike at Mashhad Airport.
In a statement released by the Iranian Embassy in India, citing the country’s Civil Aviation Authority, Tehran strongly condemned the incident, saying the aircraft was carrying medicines and medical equipment at the time. It described the attack as a “clear violation of international law” and international aviation conventions.
According to reports from the ANI news agency, Iranian officials said the aircraft was scheduled to fly to New Delhi on April 1 as part of a humanitarian initiative linked to the delivery of medical aid. The mission was reportedly coordinated within broader humanitarian cooperation between India and Iran.
Iran further alleged that the strike targeted a civilian aircraft engaged in relief operations, calling it a “blatant breach” of the Chicago Convention and the Geneva Conventions, which protect civilian and humanitarian assets during conflicts.
While Iran has issued a strong condemnation and labeled the incident a war crime, neither the United States nor Israel has officially confirmed or commented on the alleged strike at Mashhad Airport.
New Delhi has also not yet issued a statement on the matter. The incident comes amid heightened regional tensions and growing concerns over the safety of civilian aviation in conflict-affected zones.
