Document Type : Case Series
Authors
1
Applied Biotechnology Research Center, New Heath Technologies Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
2
Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
Abstract
Introduction: Educational and scientific institutions are critical national infrastructure. Attacks on such facilities can have profound implications for civilian safety, educational continuity, scientific progress, public health, and human capital development during armed conflict. This study aimed to document reported damage to educational, scientific, research, and pharmaceutical establishments in Iran resulting from military attacks between February 28 and April 10, 2026, and to assess their human, educational, scientific, and public health consequences.
Materials and Methods: This descriptive case-series drew upon publicly available records and documented reports concerning damage to the aforementioned civilian infrastructure within the specified period. Data sources included official reports, institutional statements, and publicly accessible records. Information from official sources was cross-referenced, where feasible, with independent reports, international media investigations, and publicly accessible assessments. Data were analyzed descriptively and are presented as aggregated findings alongside individual case descriptions.
Results: As of April 10, 2026, a total of 3,375 fatalities had been reported, including 496 women and 255 children under 12 years of age. Government sources reported 312 fatalities among students and educators, with more than 30,000 civilians sustaining injuries. Approximately 72,000 residential and commercial properties were damaged. Civilian infrastructure losses included over 2,000 affected properties, among which 857 were schools and more than 32 were universities and research institutions. Three notable cases were documented: the reported strike on Shajareh Tayyebeh Elementary School, the destruction of Tofigh Daru Pharmaceutical Company, and damage sustained by the Pasteur Institute of Iran, as one of Iran's major research institutes in the field of biotechnology. These incidents resulted in substantial damage to educational, pharmaceutical, scientific, and research infrastructure.
Conclusions: The documented incidents have potentially significant repercussions for educational delivery, pharmaceutical production, research continuity, and national and regional public health preparedness. They highlight the vulnerability of civilian scientific and educational infrastructure during armed conflict, raise serious concerns regarding protection under international humanitarian law, and underscore the need for independent investigation and sustained international support for restoring essential educational, pharmaceutical, and public health capacities.
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