Tehran: Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baqaei says the United States undoubtedly committed a war crime by using banned weapons in airstrikes on the southern city of Lamerd, emphasizing that Iran is making every effort to pursue justice for the victims of the attack. Baqaei made the remarks on Saturday afternoon during a press conference in Lamerd, attended by journalists and reporters from Iranian and foreign media outlets.
According to Islamic Republic News Agency, the press conference was part of Baqaei's daylong trip to Lamerd, a city in Fars Province that was struck on February 28, the first day of the second US-Israeli war of aggression against Iran in less than a year. Missile strikes hit several residential areas in Lamerd that afternoon, including a sports complex, leaving scores of casualties, among them children.
"Twenty-one people were martyred at four locations on February 28, 2026, and around 180 others were injured and are still struggling with health problems," the spokesperson said. He further explained that investigations have shown prohibited weapons were used, including cluster munitions with chemical agents, and emphasized the impact on civilian areas.
Baqaei highlighted the swift and devastating nature of the attack, stating, "Four missiles struck the 30,000-strong city of Lamerd within 35 seconds, leaving the city in mourning." He reiterated Iran's commitment to pursuing justice and urged the international community to join in seeking accountability for the attack.
During the press conference, Baqaei was accompanied by two teenage boys injured in the attack, and he shared the story of Aveena, a two-year-old girl who lost her life. He emphasized the broader message to the world regarding the consequences of indifference to such crimes.
Baqaei's address also touched on regional security issues, stressing the need for cooperation among West Asian countries to counteract warmongering by the Israeli regime and the United States. He later joined a nightly gathering in Lamerd, marking the 196th night of nationwide gatherings in Iran since the US and Israel launched their war.
Addressing the gathering, Baqaei praised the resilience of the people of Lamerd and emphasized the importance of resistance against aggression. He called for unity in safeguarding Iran's national interests and highlighted the role of diplomacy in achieving these goals, underlining the need for support from various sectors of society.
Baqaei concluded by stating that diplomacy is crucial for protecting national interests and security, and it requires backing from the populace, emphasizing a collective effort to impose Iran's will on its adversaries.