The United States and Israel initiated military strikes against Iran on Saturday, marking a significant escalation in regional tensions. The initial strike reportedly
targeted locations near the offices of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, with Iranian media reporting widespread strikes across the country. In a video posted on social media, President Donald Trump announced that the U.S. had commenced 'major combat operations in Iran,' asserting that Iran has persistently advanced its nuclear program and missile capabilities aimed at the U.S.
Israeli Leadership Responds
Israel’s President Isaac Herzog expressed support for the joint operation, stating his hope that it would lead to 'historic change and a better future for the whole Middle East and the entire world.'
Uncertainty Surrounding Khamenei
Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has not made any public appearances in the days leading up to the attack, raising concerns about his whereabouts. During previous conflicts, he was believed to have been relocated to a secure location away from Tehran.
Qatar's Defense Measures
The Qatari Defense Ministry announced the successful interception of a second wave of Iranian attacks aimed at its territory. The Foreign Ministry condemned the assaults as a 'flagrant violation' of its sovereignty, emphasizing Qatar's commitment to dialogue with Iran.
Syria and UAE Airspace Closures
In response to the conflict, Syria's civil aviation authority declared the closure of airspace in southern Syria, while major airlines, including Lufthansa and Air France, canceled flights to Lebanon. Emirates Airlines reported disruptions to several flights due to the airspace closure in the UAE.
Ongoing Military Operations
A source familiar with military plans revealed that the U.S. and Israel had coordinated the strikes for months, with expectations that operations would persist for several days.
Civilian Casualties in Iran
Iranian officials reported that Israeli-U.S. airstrikes resulted in the deaths of five students at a girls’ school in Minab, marking the first confirmed civilian casualties from the military operations.
Impact of Strikes in Israel
Israel's national rescue service reported one light injury due to an impact in northern Israel, where an apartment building suffered damage from either a missile or debris from an interception.
Iran's Retaliatory Actions
The Iranian Revolutionary Guard announced that it had launched a counterattack against U.S. and Israeli facilities in the region, claiming to have targeted military sites in Bahrain, Qatar, the UAE, and Israel.
Bahrain's Reaction
Bahrain's ambassador to the U.S. condemned the attacks as a 'blatant violation of sovereignty,' asserting that the kingdom reserves the right to respond to aggressions against its territory.
Flight Suspensions by Qatar Airways
Qatar Airways announced the temporary suspension of flights at its Doha hub due to the closure of the country's airspace, advising passengers of potential delays once operations resume.
Fatalities in UAE
Authorities in Dubai confirmed that shrapnel from an Iranian missile attack resulted in one fatality, marking the first known death in the Iranian counterattacks following the U.S.-Israeli airstrikes.
Potential for Escalation
Experts warned that the conflict could escalate further, with the potential for increased energy prices due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil shipments.
EU's Stance on Iran
The European Union's top diplomat described the situation as 'perilous,' emphasizing the need for a negotiated peace and condemning Iran's military actions as a threat to global security.
Airline Disruptions and Responses
Turkish Airlines announced the suspension of flights to several Middle Eastern countries, while Emirates Airlines continued to adjust its operations amid the ongoing conflict.
U.S. Military Operations
The U.S. military strikes were executed from both air and sea, according to a U.S. official who requested anonymity to discuss ongoing military operations.
Warnings from Israeli Officials
The Israeli military issued warnings for civilians near military sites in Iran to evacuate, emphasizing the risks posed by their proximity to potential targets.
Iran's Commitment to Retaliation
Iran's Foreign Ministry asserted that the country 'will not hesitate' to respond to military aggression, emphasizing its preparedness to defend its sovereignty.
