The United States (US) and Israel have launched coordinated missile strikes on Iran, in what Israeli officials describe as a “pre-emptive” operation to neutralise security threats.
Initially believed to be an Israeli-only action, the mission was later reported as a joint operation involving Washington. According to Fox News, the attacks are a “combined US-Israeli mission”.
Israel’s defence minister, Israel Katz, said on Saturday the strikes were aimed at “removing threats against the State of Israel”. He declared a “special and permanent state of emergency” nationwide, warning that Iran could retaliate with drones and ballistic missiles.
Explosions rock Tehran
In Iran, state media confirmed multiple explosions across Tehran.
At least three blasts were heard in the downtown area, with reports indicating missiles struck the Republic district. Further explosions were later reported in northern and eastern parts of the capital.
Iranian authorities have not yet released official details regarding casualties or damage.
Israel braces for retaliation
In Israel, sirens sounded in several areas as the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) issued a “proactive alert” to civilians.
Residents were urged to identify the nearest protected shelter and avoid non-essential travel due to the heightened security situation. The IDF clarified that while no immediate order to enter shelters had been given, the alert was meant to prepare the public for the “possibility of missile fire toward our territory”.
Diplomacy under strain
The strikes come amid delicate diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran over Iran’s nuclear programme.
Talks were expected to continue next week, but US President Donald Trump said on Friday he was not “thrilled” with the pace of negotiations, despite reports that Iran had offered concessions.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has repeatedly warned that Iran’s expanding ballistic missile capabilities pose a growing threat. He has strongly opposed any agreement limited solely to Tehran’s nuclear activities, arguing that its missile arsenal must also be addressed.
With tensions escalating rapidly, the region now faces the risk of retaliatory strikes that could widen the conflict.
