The Chinese government has announced $200,000 in emergency humanitarian aid for Iran following a devastating missile strike on an elementary school. The assistance comes amid an escalating military campaign involving U.S. and Israeli forces.
At a press briefing on Friday (March 13), Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiaqun expressed deep sympathy for the victims of the attack on the Shajareh Tayyebeh Primary School. He condemned the strike, emphasizing that attacks on civilian facilities—especially schools—violate international humanitarian law.
"The attack on the school and the subsequent civilian casualties exceed the basic limits of human conscience," Jiaqun stated.
The Chinese Red Cross Society will facilitate the $200,000 donation to the Iranian Red Crescent Society. The funds are intended to provide immediate relief and compensation to the families of the deceased.
The strike on the Shajareh Tayyebeh school in Minab, southern Iran, occurred on February 28, 2026. International reports indicate that at least 150 to 180 people, mostly schoolgirls aged 7 to 12, were killed.
The broader conflict, dubbed "Operation Epic Fury" by the U.S., has resulted in significant casualties and political upheaval:
Over 1,300 people have reportedly been killed in Iran since late February. The death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was confirmed following the initial wave of strikes. Tehran has responded with drone and missile strikes targeting military installations in Israel, Jordan, and Iraq.
Spokesperson Jiaqun urged all parties to respect national sovereignty and return to diplomatic dialogue to prevent further escalation.
The conflict has already triggered a global energy crisis. Since early March, Iran has effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz. This vital waterway typically handles 20 million barrels of oil and 20% of the world’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) daily. Shipping giants have suspended transits, leading to a sharp rise in global oil prices.
