Iran reports 1,255 people killed in the ongoing US-Israeli attacks, with most victims being civilians, according to Deputy Health Minister Ali Jafarian. The official stated that the toll includes about 200 children and 11 healthcare workers, with ages ranging from eight months to 88 years.
Speaking to Al Jazeera on Monday, Jafarian described the widespread impact of the air raids on Iran’s population and infrastructure. More than 12,000 people have been injured, many suffering from burns or crush injuries caused by the bombardment. He said the strikes have severely affected the country’s healthcare system, with 29 medical facilities damaged and 10 forced to close. In addition, 52 health centres, 18 emergency service locations, and 15 ambulances have been destroyed or rendered inoperable.
Jafarian also raised alarms about recent attacks on Iran’s oil facilities. Air raids late Saturday triggered large fires at multiple fuel sites, sending thick smoke across parts of Tehran. “The whole city was dark until the afternoon yesterday,” he said, describing the scene. Officials confirmed that the strikes hit major storage locations, including the Aghdasieh oil warehouse in northeastern Tehran, the Tehran refinery in the south, and the Shahran oil depot in the west. Israel acknowledged targeting several fuel storage facilities it said were linked to military infrastructure.
The deputy health minister warned that the smoke and pollution could lead to serious respiratory issues, particularly for children and the elderly. He advised residents to remain indoors and keep windows closed. Jafarian also expressed concern about long-term environmental consequences, including the risk of acid rain contaminating the soil.
“This is not a military issue. This is not a military target,” he said, emphasizing that most of the affected areas were civilian locations. According to Iranian officials, more than 200 cities have been struck since the attacks began on February 28. Explosions were reported again on Monday in the cities of Qom and Tehran as the US and Israel continued their air campaign. Analysts warn that there is no immediate path to de-escalation, and the conflict could continue for several weeks.
The human toll, damage to essential services, and environmental risks paint a picture of escalating crisis with long-term consequences for Iran’s population and infrastructure.
