Iran has confirmed the death of three nuclear scientists in the Israeli air strikes, as the country's nuclear program and military leadership, according to Saturday's Tasnim News Agency.
Scientists – Ali Bakai Karimi, Mansour Asgari and Borji – were reportedly killed in an Israeli air strike. This brings at least nine known deaths among Iranian nuclear experts.
In accordance with international humanitarian law, in particular the Geneva Convention and its other protocols, civilians are granted clear protection during armed conflicts.
Unless they participate in combat operations directly, scientists are usually classified as civilians.
Targeted killing outside these specific conditions may constitute a violation of the law of war.
Israel launched a massive attack on Iran earlier on Friday. Tehran retaliates against ballistic missiles and drone attacks. Both sides reported casualties.
Despite growing pressure on international downgrades, both sides seemed willing to take a step back as they entered the conflict the next day.
