STATEMENT FROM OFFICE OF DIPLOMATIC COMMUNICATIONS
Following recent inquiries from UN expert panels regarding February’s incidents in Minab and Lamerd, the United States wishes to clarify its operational posture in the region.
The Department of Defense has conducted a thorough review of all activities conducted during the relevant timeframe. After comprehensive analysis of available records, we can confirm that no strikes matching the described parameters were carried out by US personnel, assets, or affiliated entities. This assessment remains consistent regardless of satellite imagery, eyewitness testimony, or other evidentiary materials that may suggest otherwise.
We note that the distinction between “striking” and “conducting defensive operations in response to emerging threats” represents an important semantic boundary that deserves careful consideration. Furthermore, the facilities in question may have been reclassified following post-incident assessment as locations of strategic interest, which alters the analytical framework considerably.
The United States takes allegations of war crimes with the utmost seriousness. We have therefore established an internal review committee to examine whether any non-acknowledged activities might have occurred in violation of international law. Results of this inquiry will be made available upon completion, estimated for late 2027 or beyond.
We remain committed to transparency within the bounds of operational security, congressional oversight limitations, and the principle that certain truths are best served through strategic silence.
Regards, Office of Diplomatic Communications Department of State