Kathmandu— The United States military conducted overnight strikes on the city of Kuhestak in southern Iran’s Sirik County, hitting a residential building where a wedding was taking place. The attack resulted in the deaths of four civilians: Amir Ali Karimi (4), Mohammad Malahi (16), Kolsoum Malahi (43), and Zarkhatoun Taheri (43). Over 60 others were injured, some seriously. The strikes also damaged a telecommunications tower near the city’s shoreline.

US Military's Response

Tim Hawkins, a spokesperson for US Central Command (CENTCOM), acknowledged reports of civilian casualties but stated that these originated from Iranian state media. He emphasized that the US military never targets civilians and contrasted this with actions by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).

Evidence of Strikes

Witness accounts, videos, and images indicate multiple projectiles hit Kuhestak, including a telecommunications tower near the city’s shoreline. Defence experts suggest that one possible weapon used was a variant of the AGM-84K SLAM-ER missile. Footage shows at least one direct hit to the roof of the building where the wedding took place, causing significant damage and injuries.

Impact on Civilians

The attack left several civilians injured, including children and women. A man identified as Ali Malahi, whose daughter’s wedding was taking place in the targeted building, confirmed that all those inside were civilians. State TV footage from a local hospital showed wounded individuals receiving medical care.

Iranian Government's Reaction

The Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the strikes as part of a “catalogue of atrocities” by the US against Iran, noting that similar attacks have occurred in Minab and Lamerd. The Iranian Red Crescent Society documented the incident and sought legal action from the International Criminal Court.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.