Daijiworld Media Network – Tehran
Tehran, Mar 31: An Iranian civilian aircraft bound for India was reportedly struck in a US airstrike at Mashhad International Airport, disrupting a planned humanitarian mission, according to Iranian sources.
The aircraft, operated by Mahan Air, had been scheduled to fly to New Delhi as part of efforts to transport medicines and medical supplies. The plane was stationed at Mashhad airport when it was hit, affecting ongoing humanitarian coordination between India and Iran.
There has been no immediate confirmation from the United States regarding the reported strike.
The development comes amid continued humanitarian engagement between New Delhi and Tehran. Earlier this month, India dispatched medical aid consignments to Iran, highlighting longstanding civilisational and humanitarian ties between the two nations.
In a strong reaction, Iran’s Civil Aviation Organisation termed the incident a “war crime” and a violation of international law. In a statement shared via its mission in India, the body said the aircraft was carrying medicines and medical equipment sourced from multiple countries and was part of a humanitarian operation.
It added that targeting a civilian aircraft amounted to a “blatant violation” of global aviation norms and humanitarian principles. The organisation cited international legal frameworks, including the Chicago Convention (1944) and the Montreal Convention (1971), which classify acts endangering civilian aviation as criminal offences, as well as provisions under the Geneva Conventions.
Iran has called on international bodies to investigate the incident and take action against those responsible, while urging measures to safeguard civil aviation.
Mahan Air, one of Iran’s largest private carriers, has been under US sanctions for years, with Washington alleging links to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC)—a claim Tehran has consistently denied.
The reported strike adds to growing concerns over the safety of civilian aircraft operating in conflict zones, especially as the ongoing war continues to impact aviation infrastructure across Iran.