Israel launched what it described as 'pre-emptive strikes' against Iran, targeting several sites in Tehran and other locations. This military action, a joint operation with the United States, follows a month-long U.S. military buildup in the region and continued threats of attacks by President Trump, should talks on Tehran's nuclear programme fail.
Multiple explosions were repored in the centre of the Iranian capital, including the Republic area, University Street, and the Jomhouri area. Reports indicate strikes occurred near the offices of Supreme Leader Ayiatollah Ali Khamenei.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz stated the attack aimed to "remove threats to the State of Israel," particularly regarding Tehran's nuclear and ballistic missile programs.
U.S. officials confirmed participation in the strikes, describing them as part of a "vast fleet" of fighter jets and warships assembled to pressure Iran into a nuclear deal.
There was no immediate word on casualties or degree of damage.
The United States has launched military attacks on Iran from both air and sea, two U.S. officials say. One official said many fighter jets are taking part. Another said the strikes are aimed at Iran’s military and security sites.
Three officials confirmed that Tomahawk missiles are being fired from U.S. Navy ships into Iran.
Iranian state media say explosions have been reported in several places outside the capital Tehran.
The cities affected include Qom, Hamedan, Kermanshah, Karaj, Tabriz, Ilam, and the island of Qeshm in the Persian Gulf.
President Donald Trump said military action against Iran could lead to future casualties.
In a video, he called the strikes “massive and ongoing” and said the U.S. is trying to protect its troops.
“Even so, the Iranian regime seeks to kill,” he said.
“No Americans have been reported hurt so far,” Trump added.
Israel on a state of emergency
Israel has declared a "special and permanent state of emergency" nationwide with the IDF issuing a 'proactive alert,' sounding sirens across the sirens and instructing citizens to remain near shelters in anticipation of immediate retaliatory drone and missile strikes from Iran.
A prohibition on educational activities, large gatherings, and non-essential workplaces has been implemented, with exceptions for essential sectors.
The attack comes eight months following a 12 day air war between the two countries in June 2025.
Global markets have already seen fluctuations, including a surge in oil, prices, due to the risk of a wider regional conflict in the economically sensitive Middle East.
SOURCES: NBC, Al Jajeera, The Guardian, NBC News