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DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Iraq’s Ministry of Transport announced on Saturday that the country has closed its airspace in response to Israeli airstrikes
targeting Iran. The ministry’s spokesman, Mitham al-Safi, informed the state-run Iraqi News Agency that the airspace closure followed the evacuation of all air traffic from Iraqi airspace.
Details of the Airstrikes
Israel conducted an aerial assault on Iran's capital on Saturday, resulting in visible smoke rising from downtown Tehran. The initial strike reportedly occurred near the offices of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.Iranian media reported that strikes were observed across various locations in the country.
U.S. Involvement and Reactions
A U.S. official disclosed that the United States is participating in the airstrikes, although the extent of its involvement remains unclear. The White House has not provided immediate comments on the matter.It remains uncertain whether Khamenei was present in his offices during the attack, as he has not appeared publicly in recent days amid escalating tensions with the U.S. The airstrikes coincide with U.S. military assets being mobilized in the region to exert pressure on Iran regarding its nuclear program.
Security Measures and Local Impact
Authorities in Tehran closed roads leading to Khamenei's compound as additional explosions were reported throughout the capital. The Israeli military issued alerts to prepare the public for potential missile threats.Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz characterized the operation as necessary for eliminating threats, although he did not provide further details.
Iran's Response and Regional Tensions
Iran has not yet indicated its immediate response to the attacks, but it previously warned that U.S. military personnel and bases in the region would be targets for retaliation.As the situation unfolded, hospitals in Israel activated emergency protocols, relocating patients and surgeries to underground facilities in anticipation of further conflict.
Ongoing Developments
In Tehran, witnesses reported the initial blast near Khamenei's office, while Iranian state television confirmed the explosion without providing additional details. Sirens were activated across Israel, coinciding with the closure of its airspace.Explosions continued to rock Tehran as Israel confirmed its military operations. Iranian authorities have yet to release casualty figures from the strikes, while mobile phone services in Iran were disrupted.
