U.S. Warns of Iranian Military Operations from Civilian Areas

The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has issued a warning regarding the Iranian regime's use of heavily populated cities, specifically Dezful, Isfahan, and Shiraz, as launch sites for one-way attack drones and ballistic missiles. This tactic has raised significant concerns about civilian safety, as these military operations are increasingly being conducted from residential neighborhoods. CENTCOM stated that under international law, areas used for military purposes lose their protected status, making them legitimate targets in conflict.

Since the onset of Operation Epic Fury on February 28, Iran has launched hundreds of ballistic missiles and thousands of drones, targeting various locations across the Middle East, including civilian infrastructure such as airports and hotels. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) reported that its air defenses intercepted 221 ballistic missiles and 1,342 drones during this period. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has claimed that Iran's strikes are directed at U.S. military bases rather than "friendly and neighboring countries."

Admiral Brad Cooper, commander of CENTCOM, criticized the Iranian regime for "blatantly disregarding civilian lives" while compromising the safety of its own population. He emphasized that while U.S. forces take precautions to minimize civilian harm, they cannot guarantee safety near military facilities. The warning comes amid accusations from Bahrain that Iran targeted a water treatment plant, raising alarms about the potential for attacks on critical civilian infrastructure in the Gulf.

Iranian officials have countered the U.S. narrative, asserting that the U.S. is responsible for escalating tensions in the region. Iran's foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, condemned U.S. strikes on Iranian infrastructure, claiming they set a dangerous precedent for attacks on critical resources. This perspective highlights the ongoing conflict between the U.S. and Iran, with both sides blaming each other for the escalation of violence.

There are discrepancies regarding the impact of the ongoing military operations. While CENTCOM reports a significant decline in launch rates due to targeted strikes on Iranian military capabilities, Iranian sources maintain that their military operations continue unabated. Additionally, the exact number of civilian casualties resulting from these conflicts remains unclear, with reports of significant incidents, including an explosion near a school that killed over 165 people.

As the conflict continues to evolve, further military actions are anticipated from both Iran and U.S.-led forces. The situation remains fluid, with potential implications for civilian safety in the region as military operations increasingly intersect with populated areas.

• “Iran’s terrorist regime is blatantly disregarding civilian lives by attacking Gulf partners while compromising the safety of their own people,” — Adm. Brad Cooper, Commander of CENTCOM

• “military takes precautions to minimize collateral damage, they clarified that they cannot guarantee the safety of anyone near facilities or neighborhoods that the regime is using for military purposes.” — CENTCOM Statement