The United States and Israel have launched coordinated military strikes on Iran, marking a dramatic escalation after weeks of tension surrounding Iran’s nuclear programme.
US President Donald Trump confirmed American involvement, describing ongoing “major combat operations” and urging Iranian government forces to stand down. Earlier, Israel’s defence minister said the country had carried out a “pre-emptive attack”, with explosions reported in multiple locations.
The strikes follow sustained diplomatic friction and mounting threats linked to Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
At approximately 09:30 Tehran time (06:00 GMT), Iranian media outlets reported explosions in the capital. Images circulating showed smoke rising over Jomhouri Square and Hassan Abad Square.
Blasts were also reported in several other cities, including Isfahan, Qom, Karaj, and Kermanshah. The full extent of casualties or damage has not yet been confirmed.
Iran’s airspace was shut down following the attacks, according to Tasnim News Agency. President Trump described the military action as “massive and ongoing.”
In a video posted on Truth Social, Trump confirmed the operation, saying:
“A short time ago, the United States military began major combat operations in Iran,”
He added:
“Our objective is to defend the American people by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime,”
and emphasized Washington’s goal to
“ensure that Iran does not obtain a nuclear weapon”.
Trump also urged civilians to stay indoors and told the Iranian people:
“When we are finished, take over your government,”
“It will be yours to take. This will be probably your only chance for generations.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu echoed similar sentiments, calling on Iranians:
“to throw off the yoke of tyranny and bring about a free and peaceful Iran”.
He thanked Trump and reiterated that Iran
“must not be armed with nuclear weapons that would allow it to threaten all of humanity”.
Netanyahu stated:
“Our joint action will create the conditions for the courageous Iranian people to take their destiny into their own hands.”
Meanwhile, Israel’s defence minister declared a “special and permanent state of emergency” nationwide.
Israel’s military reported detecting missiles launched from Iran, stating it was working to “intercept and strike threats where necessary.”
Explosions were heard in Haifa and other Israeli cities, though it remains unclear whether these were direct impacts or interceptions.
Beyond Israel and Iran, the conflict has affected neighbouring countries. Bahrain reported that the US Navy 5th Fleet service centre was “subjected to a missile attack”, with emergency sirens sounding and residents advised to seek shelter.
Qatar’s defence ministry said it “successfully countered a number of attacks targeting the country’s territory” after explosions were heard in Doha. Qatar hosts the Al Udeid Air Base, the largest US military facility in the region.
Israel has restricted public gatherings, school attendance, and non-essential work until Monday 20:00. Its airspace has also been closed to civilian traffic.
The conflict has also triggered widespread air travel disruptions. Lufthansa suspended flights to and from Dubai and several Middle Eastern capitals until 7 March. Wizz Air halted operations in Israel, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Amman. Virgin Atlantic cancelled a London Heathrow to Dubai flight and is avoiding Iraqi airspace. Kuwait suspended all flights to Iran until further notice. Iraq and Jordan closed their airspace, while the United Arab Emirates partially and temporarily restricted access.
The UK Foreign Office has updated travel guidance for several countries in the region, advising travellers to:
“remain vigilant, follow local authority advice and take shelter if advised”.
As the situation continues to develop, regional security, global markets, and diplomatic relations remain on high alert.
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