UN-backed experts find US may have committed war crimes in Iran, and other Mideast developments

United Nations-backed human rights experts found "reasonable grounds" to believe the United States may have committed war crimes in Iran during the first day of the war. Two U.S. strikes resulted in the deaths of at least 178 civilians, including women and children. One missile hit a school in Minab, while another dispersed tungsten pellets over a sports complex and residential area in Lamerd. The U.S. has not yet acknowledged responsibility or released findings from an investigation into the school bombing.

Meanwhile, the Palestinian Authority condemned the U.S. decision to deny visas for Palestinian officials attending the U.N. General Assembly, accusing Israel of being a threat to the two-state solution and peace prospects. The Authority administers parts of the West Bank and remains committed to negotiations, but defends its international efforts.

Israel and Morocco, signatories of the Abraham Accords, announced they would open embassies and strengthen their relations. Israel and Morocco will face elections soon. Additionally, Pakistan and Turkey signed a defense pact with Saudi Arabia, with both countries calling for an end to the fighting in Yemen. The Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, have attacked Saudi Arabia.

Turkey's defense ministry described the pact as defensive, focusing on deterrence, military cooperation, and strengthening defense capabilities. A Pakistani foreign ministry spokesperson announced arrangements for establishing a secretariat.