What is the story about?
The United States and Israel launched an attack Saturday on Iran, with the first apparent strike occurring near the offices of Supreme Leader Ayatollah
Ali Khamenei. Iranian media reported strikes nationwide, with smoke visible rising from the capital.
President Donald Trump announced in a video posted on social media that the U.S. had commenced 'major combat operations in Iran,' claiming that Iran continued to develop its nuclear program and missile capabilities.In response to the joint strikes, Iran’s Foreign Ministry stated that the country 'will not hesitate' to retaliate against the military aggression. The ministry emphasized, 'The time has come to defend the homeland and confront the enemy’s military assault.' It added that Iran’s armed forces would respond decisively to any aggressors.
Meanwhile, Qatar’s Defense Ministry reported that its military intercepted several missiles before they could enter its airspace, asserting that the missiles were dealt with swiftly according to a pre-approved security plan. The Ministry of Defense affirmed the Qatari Armed Forces' capability to protect the nation.
The U.S. strikes on Iran were executed from both air and sea, as confirmed by a U.S. official who requested anonymity due to the ongoing military operations.
Explosions were reported in Qatar as Iran initiated a counterattack against the U.S.-Israel campaign. Witnesses heard blasts as Iran launched missiles and drones targeting Israel, followed by apparent attacks on U.S. military installations in Kuwait and Qatar.
Reactions from U.S. lawmakers reflected political divisions regarding the military actions. Senator Lindsey Graham, a Republican from South Carolina, expressed support for the strikes, claiming they could lead to freedom for the Iranian people. Conversely, Senator Ruben Gallego, a Democrat from Arizona, cautioned against young Americans bearing the brunt of a conflict that has not been adequately justified.
The United Arab Emirates closed its airspace amid the strikes, impacting global air travel, as the country hosts major long-haul carriers. Bahrain’s state news agency reported that several facilities within the kingdom were struck in what it described as 'an aggression' from outside, condemning the attack as a violation of its sovereignty.
In Qatar, mobile phone alerts urged citizens to seek shelter. Witnesses in Kuwait reported hearing sirens and explosions as the situation escalated.
According to a Dutch intelligence firm, the strikes suggest a coordinated military campaign aimed at degrading Iran’s air defenses. Eric Schouten, CEO of Dyami security intelligence, indicated that the actions are likely preparatory for a broader military operation.
In Israel, residents were advised to remain close to shelters as sirens blared throughout the morning. The Israeli military announced that air defense systems would be activated to counter the threat from Iran.
Bahrain reported a missile attack on the service center of the U.S. 5th Fleet, although further details were not immediately available. Israeli officials stated that the operation had been in planning for months, aimed at neutralizing perceived threats from Iran.
As explosions were heard in Syria and Lebanon, U.S. embassies in the Middle East advised American citizens to take cover. Iranian state television broadcast footage of damage in Tehran, indicating the impact of the strikes.
Iran's Revolutionary Guard announced it had launched a 'first wave' of drones and missiles targeting Israel, signaling potential for further escalation. The U.S. Embassy in Qatar advised all personnel to shelter in place, emphasizing the risks associated with the ongoing conflict.
President Trump, expressing frustration over Iran's nuclear negotiations, stated that the operations might lead to U.S. casualties, acknowledging the harsh realities of war. He framed the attacks as necessary to counter Iran’s ongoing missile development and nuclear ambitions.
Trump's comments included a warning to Iranian officials to 'lay down your arms' or face dire consequences, urging the Iranian populace to reclaim their government. Meanwhile, Iraq closed its airspace following the strikes.
