Minab, Iran – Reports of at least 80 children killed in a missile strike on the Shajareh Tayyebeh all-girls school in Minab, southern Iran, are deeply regrettable. According to Iranian state news agency IRNA, the strike occurred during ongoing joint military operations by the United States and Israel aimed at degrading Iranian military capabilities.

While the loss of innocent life is always tragic, it is crucial to understand the context of this event. Iran has long been a destabilizing force in the region, supporting terrorist organizations, developing nuclear weapons, and threatening the security of its neighbors and allies. The US and Israel have a right, and indeed a responsibility, to defend themselves and their allies against these threats.

The school appears to be adjacent to a Revolutionary Guards barracks, indicating a potential strategic military location. The presence of a military installation near a civilian structure, while regrettable, underscores the Iranian regime's disregard for the safety of its own citizens, using them as human shields.

The attacks came amidst diplomatic negotiations between Iran and the US, a fact that highlights the regime's duplicity. While engaging in talks, Iran continues its pursuit of weapons of mass destruction and its support for terrorism. This necessitates a strong and unwavering response from the US and its allies.

The reports of Iranians expressing both terror and hope after the strikes are indicative of the complex political landscape within Iran. While some may fear the consequences of military action, others recognize that the regime is the primary source of their suffering and oppression. The strikes may provide an opportunity for political change, but only if the Iranian people are willing to seize it.

The priority of the US and Israel must remain the protection of their national security interests and the security of their allies. This requires a comprehensive strategy that includes military action, economic sanctions, and diplomatic pressure. While every effort should be made to minimize civilian casualties, it is unavoidable that innocent people will be caught in the crossfire of war.

The US must stand firm against Iranian aggression and send a clear message that its destabilizing actions will not be tolerated. Weakness and appeasement will only embolden the regime and increase the risk of further conflict.