Iran says US bombed a wedding party in Sirik, killing at least four people - aljazeera.com

**Iran Accuses United States of Bombing Wedding in Sirik, Killing Civilians**

*Tehran –* Iranian officials said a U.S. airstrike on Saturday hit a wedding celebration in the coastal town of Sirik, in the province of Hormozgan, killing at least four people and wounding several others. The Iranian Foreign Ministry released a statement that the attack “targeted a civilian gathering” and that “the United States has once again shown its willingness to violate Iran’s sovereignty.” State‑run news agency IRNA cited local authorities who confirmed that the blast occurred around 10:30 p.m. local time, when families had gathered for the nuptial festivities of a 28‑year‑old bride. Photographs posted on social media showed a charred building and mourners in white mourning garments.

The United States has not confirmed responsibility for the strike, but a Pentagon spokesperson said that U.S. forces continue to conduct “legitimate defensive operations” against militia groups operating in the region, notably those linked to attacks on shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Washington has previously acknowledged air operations inside Iranian territory targeting the Iran‑aligned Kata’ib Hezbollah militia, though it has denied any intent to harm civilians. The discrepancy in casualty figures—Iran’s state media later reported up to 11 deaths—has intensified diplomatic friction, with Tehran demanding an immediate investigation and an apology, while the U.S. reiterates that its actions are confined to combatants.

The incident arrives amid a broader escalation of hostilities between Tehran and Washington. In recent weeks, Iran has threatened “new strategies” in response to what it calls American aggression, echoing rhetoric from senior officials warning of “deepening the conflict.” Regional allies, including Russia and China, have called for restraint, urging both sides to avoid further civilian harm. The United Nations has urged both parties to allow humanitarian access and to investigate the incident transparently, warning that civilian casualties could inflame an already volatile Middle Eastern security environment.