Breaking News: Israel and US Engage in Military Action Against Iran
The world is witnessing a tense and controversial development as Israel and the United States launch a coordinated attack on Iran. Reports from the ground paint a chaotic picture, with explosions rocking cities across the region.
But here's where it gets controversial: Israel's Defense Minister, Israel Katz, has justified the strikes as a necessary move to eliminate threats to the state of Israel. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump has confirmed a massive ongoing operation in Iran, warning of potential American casualties.
International news agencies are buzzing with reports of explosions in multiple cities, amidst an anticipated Iranian response. Stay tuned for our live coverage as this situation unfolds.
Key Developments:
- Daytime Attack: The US and Israel launched a daytime assault on Iran, with the first strike targeting the offices of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iranian media reports strikes nationwide, with smoke visible over Tehran.
- Trump's Statement: In a social media video, President Trump declared the commencement of "major combat operations" in Iran.
- Global Impact: The United Arab Emirates has closed its airspace, disrupting air travel worldwide.
- Australia's Stance: Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has voiced Australia's support for the US action, citing Iran's pursuit of nuclear weapons as a threat to international peace.
- Regional Explosions: Bahrain reports multiple attacks, while explosions have been reported in Qatar, Kuwait, and Abu Dhabi. A US Navy fleet headquarters in Bahrain has come under missile attack.
Breaking Update:
Explosions in Abu Dhabi: Reuters witnesses report several explosions near the main airport in Abu Dhabi.
Houthi Response: In a show of solidarity with Iran, the Iranian-backed Houthis in Yemen have announced a resumption of missile and drone attacks on shipping routes and Israel. This decision comes after a temporary ceasefire.
Negotiation Attempts: Earlier this week, there were hopes for de-escalation as US and Iranian officials met in Geneva for talks mediated by Oman. Although no breakthrough was achieved, both sides agreed to continue negotiations next week in Vienna.
Ukraine's Condemnation: Ukraine's foreign ministry has blamed Iranian authorities for the escalation, expressing solidarity with the Iranian people, and calling for a change in government.
Attack Targets: Israel and the US targeted Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and President Masoud Pezeshkian. Video footage shows smoke rising over Khamenei's compound, with women on rooftops seemingly celebrating.
Trump's Address: President Trump is expected to address the nation again soon. The exact timing is unclear, but it is anticipated to be in the morning local time.
Injuries in Israel: Paramedics have been dispatched to multiple scenes in northern Israel, treating a man with blast injuries. Additional reports indicate individuals injured while seeking shelter and those suffering from anxiety.
US Military Build-up: The movement of US military assets towards Europe and the Middle East suggests a potential attack on Iran. This build-up has been ongoing since January.
Airline Cancellations: Bulgaria Air and Air France have suspended flights to and from Tel Aviv and Beirut, respectively, due to security concerns.
Israeli Official's Statement: An Israeli military official confirms the attack was planned for weeks, with close coordination between Israel and the US. They report Iran's response with dozens of missiles, but no significant hits on Israel yet.
Casualties in Iraq: At least two Iraqi fighters were killed and three seriously wounded after air strikes in Jurf al-Sakhar, south of Baghdad.
UK's Position: The UK government has stated its opposition to further escalation, emphasizing its support for a negotiated solution to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. However, it confirmed it did not participate in the strikes.
IDF Warning: The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has issued an urgent warning to Iranian civilians near military weapons production factories and infrastructure, urging them to evacuate for their safety.
Blasts Inside Iran: Reports from various cities in Iran, including Tehran, Isfahan, and Qom, indicate widespread attacks. Videos emerging from inside Iran are being verified for their locations.
Australian Government's Statement: Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, along with other ministers, has released a joint statement expressing support for the US action and condemning Iran's destabilizing activities. Australians are advised to avoid travel to Iran, Israel, and Lebanon.
Lebanon's PM Message: Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam has sent an indirect message to Hezbollah, stating he will not accept any actions that threaten Lebanon's security and unity.
As this situation unfolds, the world holds its breath, awaiting further developments and the potential consequences of this military action.
