Iran FM Spokesperson Holds Press Briefing in School Classroom as Officials Shelter in Civilian Sites

Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Ismail Baghaei held his press conference in a school classroom — complete with blackboards and children's drawings — rather than the ministry's official briefing room, in what critics called evidence of regime leaders sheltering in civilian facilities out of fear. Reporters sat at school desks as Baghaei addressed the media from behind a classroom lectern. Iranian opposition sources noted that officials have previously used hospitals for similar protection, characterizing the pattern as systematic use of civilian infrastructure — schools and medical centers — as political and security shields. The regime has long been accused of weaponizing educational and healthcare facilities for propaganda and security purposes.