President says Iran likely responsible for reported school strike; investigation ongoing

At a Dover press event, a reporter asked whether U.S. forces had struck a girls' elementary school in southern Iran on the first day of the conflict, citing an alleged death toll of 175. The reporter asked directly: "Did The United States bomb a girl's elementary school in Southern Iran on the first day of the war and kill a 175 people?" (Reporter, S3)

President Trump replied, "Based on what I've seen, that was done by Iran," and said the administration was investigating. "Still investigating," he added. He later reiterated, "We think it was done by Iran." (President Trump, S2)

Another reporter framed the question more broadly by noting Iranian accusations that the U.S. had struck a desalination plant. The president responded by denouncing Iranian conduct and saying he knew nothing about any desalination-plant strike beyond the reported allegation; he also contrasted alleged Iranian attacks on civilians with U.S. behavior. "They are among the most evil people... They cut babies' heads off. They chop women in half," he said, urging attention to Iran's past actions. (President Trump, S2)

The president's statements were presented as his assessment on the record; the transcript records no independent confirmation or documentary evidence aired during the event. Reporters asked follow-up questions but no formal inquiry findings were announced before the event closed. The administration indicated investigations were continuing.

Outcome and next steps: The president said probes were underway; reporters indicated ongoing investigative attention will be required for independent verification.