Israel and the United States launched attacks on Iran today. Explosions have been reported in multiple Iranian cities, including the capital, Tehran. US President Donald Trump confirmed in an eight-minute video posted on a social media platform that Washington had begun a military campaign in Iran.
He said the US military is undertaking a massive and ongoing operation to prevent the current Iranian regime from threatening America and its core national security interests. He added that the objective of the strikes is to defend the American people by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime. He said Iran's menacing activities directly endanger the United States, its troops, bases overseas, and allies throughout the world. Israel's defense minister, Israel Katz, has said his country has launched a preemptive attack against Iran, and he also declared a state of emergency across the country.
The strikes came amid heightened tensions between the United States and Iran over a potential nuclear agreement and growing fears of a wider military confrontation in West Asia.
Witnesses said a blast struck downtown in Tehran, as thick smoke was seen rising in the sky. An apparent strike in Tehran happened near the offices of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Following the attacks, Iran has shut down its airspace, and mobile phone services have been disrupted.
A warning to pilots was also issued as multiple explosions were reported across the Iranian capital. Several missiles hit areas along University Street and in the Jomhouri district of the Iranian capital. The extent of the damage and possible casualties was not immediately clear. Meanwhile, Iraq has closed its airspace following Israeli airstrikes on neighbouring Iran.
Sirens sounded across Israel at the same time. The Israeli military said the alert measures were aimed at ensuring civilian safety in the event of retaliatory missile fire from Iran or its regional allies. The developments come at a sensitive diplomatic moment.