US strike hits India-bound aircraft in Iran, Tehran calls it a ‘war crime’

An aircraft belonging to Mahan Air was reportedly hit during a United States airstrike at Mashhad International Airport, disrupting a planned humanitarian mission linked to India, according to Iranian sources.

The aircraft, stationed at the airport, was scheduled to fly to New Delhi in the coming days to facilitate the transport of humanitarian supplies, including medicines and medical equipment, as part of ongoing coordination between India and Iran.

Sources cited by ANI said the plane was struck while preparing for the aid mission, derailing logistical plans tied to recent humanitarian exchanges between the two countries. India had earlier dispatched medical consignments to Iran, underscoring what New Delhi described as longstanding civilization ties.

There has been no immediate confirmation from the United States on the reported strike.

Iran terms strike a violation of international law

In a strongly worded response, Iran’s Civil Aviation Organisation described the incident as a “war crime” and a clear breach of international law. Authorities said the aircraft was engaged in a humanitarian operation and carrying critical medical supplies sourced from multiple countries.

The organisation termed the targeting of a civilian aircraft a “blatant violation” of international aviation norms and humanitarian principles. It cited key global frameworks, including the Chicago Convention (1944) and the Montreal Convention (1971), which classify attacks endangering civilian aviation as international offences.

It also referred to provisions under the Geneva Conventions that protect civilian objects, warning that such strikes could amount to war crimes under international humanitarian law.

Calling for accountability, Iran urged global bodies to investigate the incident, prosecute those responsible and strengthen safeguards for civilian aviation operating in conflict zones.

Rising risks for civilian aviation

The reported strike has intensified concerns over the safety of civilian and humanitarian flights in conflict-hit regions. Aviation infrastructure in Iran has faced repeated damage in recent months amid escalating hostilities, raising fears of broader risks to non-military air operations.

Mahan Air, one of Iran’s largest private carriers, has long been under US sanctions over alleged links to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps—claims Tehran has consistently denied.

The latest incident threatens to deepen tensions further, while casting a shadow over humanitarian logistics and civilian aviation safety in the region.