‘My companions’: Iran’s silent Minab message to US on flight

When Iran’s team flew to Islamabad for peace talk with the United States, they carried something very emotional with them. In the front row of the plane, there were  blood-soaked school bags, small shoes, white flowers, photos and belongings of children who died in the Minab attack. These items were kept as a reminder of why these talks are happening. 

The Iranian delegation was led by Mohammed Bagher Ghalibaf. He shared a picture on social media and called these items his “companions”. The team has even named “Minab 168” to remember the children who were killed. 

The incident happened back on 28 February, when strikes hit a girls primary school in Minab, a town in southern Iran. More than 160 children were reportedly killed. Iran has blamed the US and Israel for the attack. Foreign minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said innocent children lost their lives and called it a serious crime. 

However, the US has denied targeting the school. Former US President Donald Trump said the damage could have been caused by Iran’s own weapons. But a report by The New York Times suggested that a US missile may have hit the school by mistake.

Both countries have now come to Pakistan for peace talks. Iran’s team includes top officials from different sectors, while the US side is led by Vice President JD Vance. Pakistan gave a warm welcome to both delegations, showing its important role in hosting these discussion

Even though the children’s belongings are not part of the official talks, their presence is a strong emotional message that cannot be ignored.