Images circulating on social media allegedly show U.S.-made anti-tank mines scattered in a residential area in southern Iran according to the Washington Post.

The report says the images appear to depict BLU 91/B anti tank mines, part of the Gator Mine System which is deployed from aircraft. Four experts consulted by the newspaper reportedly confirmed that only United States is known to operate this system.

The mines were reportedly seen near an area about three miles from Shiraz, close to Iranian ballistic missile installations. Experts suggest the purpose may be to restrict access for mobile launchers operating in the region.

The U.S. Central Command declined to comment on the matter. Military reports indicate that such systems can disperse both anti tank and anti-personnel mines, though it remains unclear whether the latter were used in this case.

Human rights organizations have long opposed anti personnel mines due to their long term risks to civilians. The use of such weapons was last reported by U.S. forces in Afghanistan in 2002.

Former policy shifts under different U.S. administrations regarding landmine restrictions have also drawn international debate over humanitarian concerns and battlefield necessity.