Iran has released photographs of eight civilians it says were martyrs during alleged US airstrikes in Hormozgan Province, escalating tensions between Tehran and Washington. According to Iranian state media, the victims included four women, four men, and two disabled brothers. The images were published as Iranian officials strongly condemned the reported attacks.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei said in a statement on X that the United States targeted bridges in Hormozgan during overnight strikes. He alleged that the attacks martyrs eight innocent civilians and described the operation as a “war crime” and a violation of international law.
This is how the United States attempts to showcase its so-called “strength”: by attacking civilian infrastructure and killing civilians.
Last night, in its unlawful attacks on Hormuzgan Province, the US committed another blatant war crime by targetting bridges and murdering… pic.twitter.com/W77QAq0aYK
— Esmaeil Baqaei (@IRIMFA_SPOX) July 17, 2026
Baghaei stated that the victims included four men and four women, adding that attacks on civilian infrastructure would not weaken Iran’s resolve. He said the Iranian people are now more united than ever and are prepared to defend the country against what he described as criminal aggression.
Separately, Iran’s Foreign Minister released photographs of three civilians reportedly martyrs in Bandar Khamir, claiming they were crossing a bridge when it was struck. Iranian officials said the victims had no military connection and were caught in the attack while traveling through the area.
The foreign minister vowed that the deaths of those martyrs in the alleged strikes would not go unanswered. He said Iran would continue defending its sovereignty and national security, stressing that the country would stand firm in the face of external threats.
3 villagers were martyred while crossing the Bandar Khamir Bridge. They were absolutely innocent, and we will never allow their blood to be in vain.
Iran is our homeland—from south to north, and from east to west. We will defend every inch of our land until our very last breath. pic.twitter.com/ZV2vxsnCDl
— Seyed Abbas Araghchi (@araghchi) July 17, 2026
These claims have been made by Iranian officials and state media. At the time of publication, there has been no immediate official response from the United States regarding the allegations, and the reported casualty figures have not been independently verified. Analysts warn that the incident could further increase tensions in the Middle East and raise concerns about broader regional instability.
