Photo of Minab students’ funeral wins top honor at Golden shot awards 2026
An aerial photograph documenting the funeral and burial ceremony of 168 students who lost their lives in an attack on an elementary school in Minab has been named News Photo of the Year at the internationally recognized Golden Shot Photography Awards 2026.
The award-winning image was captured by Iranian photographer Morteza Akhondi from Hormozgan Province. The photograph, noted for its compelling composition and emotional impact, earned first place in the competition after receiving high praise from the international judging panel.
According to the final results, Akhondi secured the gold medal, while Polish photographer Bartosz Matenko finished in second place and Saudi photographer Mohammad Mohtaseb took third.
The recognition underscores the increasing visibility and growing influence of Iranian photographers and visual artists in major international competitions.
The image portrays the aftermath of the attack on Shajareh Tayyebeh Elementary School in Minab, which was struck on February 28 during the opening day of military operations against Iran.
According to reports, the school building was hit by multiple missile strikes, causing extensive destruction. The collapse of sections of the two-story structure resulted in heavy casualties among students and staff.
The attack claimed the lives of at least 168 people, including 26 female teachers, and left more than 95 others injured. Many of the victims were children between the ages of seven and twelve.
