Iran's Ministry of Education announced Thursday that all schools across the country will shift to virtual learning beginning April 21 and continue until further notice. Ministry spokesperson Ali Farhadi stated that the measure applies to every educational level and grade nationwide, with any decision to resume in-person classes requiring at least three days' notice to students and parents.

The order comes amid persistent disruptions, including internet connectivity issues, though officials did not explicitly cite the war. Iran has faced repeated infrastructure challenges since the conflict escalated, affecting daily life and services.

The announcement occurs as the United States-Iran-Israel war enters its seventh week. The conflict began on February 28, 2026, with U.S. and Israeli airstrikes targeting Iranian military sites and nuclear facilities, prompting Iranian retaliation via drones and missiles. Early strikes damaged government buildings, schools, and hospitals in Iran.

A notable incident involved a strike on an elementary school in Minab, southern Iran, which killed over 150 people, mostly children. U.S. investigations indicated likely American responsibility due to faulty intelligence, though Iran accused both the U.S. and Israel. The United Nations described the attack as potentially a war crime.

Iranian universities shifted to online classes in March and extended the format until year-end. Schools faced closures and remote learning earlier due to strikes and retaliatory actions. Regional neighbors like the UAE also extended distance learning amid the spillover effects.

As of April 13, the U.S. enforced a naval blockade on Iranian ports to curb oil exports, costing Tehran an estimated $435 million daily. Israeli ground operations continued in southern Lebanon against Hezbollah, killing over 250 fighters, while Hezbollah launched rockets and drones at Israel. Ceasefire negotiations in Islamabad stalled over nuclear demands, with a second round planned before an April 21 deadline.

Iranian-backed militias conducted drone attacks on U.S. bases and Gulf states, complicating truce efforts. The war has disrupted education across the region, with Israeli schools also facing closures and remote shifts.

Education officials emphasized continuity through virtual platforms despite connectivity challenges. The semiofficial Tasnim News Agency reported the shift starts April 21, aligning with the nationwide scope. Parents and students await further updates as the conflict persists.