What is the story about?
The United States and Israel conducted a coordinated military operation against Iran on Saturday, targeting locations near the offices of Supreme Leader
Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Initial reports indicate widespread strikes across Iran, with smoke visible in the capital city of Tehran. President Donald Trump announced via social media that the U.S. has initiated 'major combat operations in Iran,' citing concerns over Iran's nuclear advancements and missile development capabilities aimed at the U.S.
Political Reactions in the U.S.
The response from U.S. lawmakers has largely reflected political divisions regarding the military action. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) expressed his support for Trump, suggesting the attacks could lead to freedom for the Iranian people, stating, 'This operation is necessary and long justified.'Conversely, Senator Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), a veteran of the Iraq War, cautioned against the potential consequences for American service members, arguing, 'Young working-class kids should not pay the ultimate price for regime change and a war that hasn’t been explained or justified to the American people.'
Representative Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) criticized the president, claiming the strikes amounted to 'acts of war unauthorized by Congress.'
Regional Developments
The United Arab Emirates has closed its airspace in response to the strikes, significantly impacting global air travel due to its status as a hub for major airlines like Emirates and Etihad.Bahrain's state news agency reported that several sites within the kingdom were attacked, describing the incident as 'an aggression' and a violation of sovereignty. Emergency measures are now in place across the nation.
In Qatar, residents received mobile alerts advising them to take shelter, while sirens and blasts were reported in Kuwait, where U.S. Army Central is based.
Military Analysis
An analysis from a Dutch intelligence firm suggested that the strikes indicate a broader military campaign aimed at degrading Iran's air defenses. Eric Schouten, CEO of Dyami security intelligence firm, noted, 'This appears less like a symbolic strike and more like the opening phase of a coordinated campaign designed to establish air superiority.'Public Response in Israel
In Israel, authorities urged the public to remain close to shelters as sirens sounded throughout the morning. The streets of major cities were largely deserted as residents heeded warnings of potential attacks.U.S. Military Operations
Bahrain's state news agency confirmed that the service center of the U.S. 5th Fleet was attacked. Further details regarding the extent of damage are expected to be released.Israel stated that the operation had been planned for months, indicating a high level of coordination between Israeli and U.S. military forces.
International Implications
Reports of explosions were also noted in Syria and Lebanon, attributed to Israeli air defenses intercepting Iranian missiles. U.S. embassies across the Middle East advised American citizens to shelter in place amid the escalating conflict.In Iran, state television broadcast footage of significant destruction in Tehran, with rescue operations ongoing to locate survivors in the rubble.
Future Threats from Iran
Iran's Revolutionary Guard announced the launch of a 'first wave' of drone and missile attacks targeting Israel, indicating a potential escalation in hostilities.Trump expressed concerns about potential U.S. casualties in the ongoing operations, acknowledging that 'the lives of courageous American heroes may be lost.'
