Empty Seats, Silent Tears: Iran Speaker Carries Memories Of Minab School Children On Flight

Mohammad Ghalibaf, Speaker of Iran’s Parliament, drew attention to the victims of the Minab school attack during his journey to Islamabad by arranging a symbolic display inside his aircraft.

Images shared from the flight showed empty seats occupied by photographs of children who lost their lives in the incident, along with school bags and flowers placed beside them.

The visual presentation commemorated those killed in the strike on an elementary school in Minab earlier this year.

Posting the image on social media, Ghalibaf referred to the victims as his ‘companions’ on the flight, invoking the memory of those who died in the February 28 attack, which Iran attributes to the United States and Israel.

The incident reportedly resulted in more than 160 deaths and over 100 injuries, and has since become central to Iran’s messaging ahead of ongoing diplomatic efforts.

Upon reaching Islamabad, Ghalibaf indicated that Iran would participate in the upcoming discussions with caution. He stated that while Tehran is ready to engage, past experiences have led to a lack of trust in negotiations with the United States.

Ghalibaf added that any potential agreement would depend on whether Iran’s rights are recognised, stressing that meaningful progress would require a genuine approach from the American side. He also warned that Iran would respond firmly if it perceives a lack of sincerity in the process.

From the United States, Vice President JD Vance signalled a willingness to engage in dialogue, stating that negotiations could move forward if conducted in good faith, while cautioning against any attempt to undermine the process.

President Donald Trump also commented separately, suggesting Iran may be overstating its position as talks approach. He pointed to broader regional tensions, including those linked to the Strait of Hormuz.