U.S. and Israel intensify Iran offensive
Tehran and Persian Gulf region face escalating strikes and reprisals
A major U.S.-Israeli military offensive against Iran continues to unfold after joint forces launched coordinated air and missile strikes on multiple Iranian targets in Tehran and elsewhere, marking one of the most significant direct confrontations between Washington, Tel Aviv and Tehran in decades. President Donald Trump described the action as “major combat operations,” aimed at degrading Iranian military capabilities and regime leadership amid escalating regional tensions.
The strikes, identified by the U.S. Pentagon as Operation Epic Fury, included attacks on ballistic missile facilities and high-value military and government sites, with Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei confirmed killed in a strike on his compound in Tehran, according to Iranian state media and U.S. statements.
The Israel Defense Forces reported that its aircraft have been operating with air superiority over Tehran, carrying out strikes on multiple targets in recent hours. According to the military, the targets included ballistic missile launchers, command centers, and Iranian air defense systems.
Iran has responded with widespread missile and drone counter-attacks against Israeli targets and U.S. forces and bases across the Persian Gulf, including in Qatar, Bahrain, the UAE and Kuwait, as part of its retaliation strategy. Some missiles have caused limited damage and civilian casualties in the region, including foreign workers killed in the UAE.
Broadcasting on Iran's State TV was interrupted after reported strikes on the headquarters. In a video released on social media a huge fireball could be seen and explosions could be heard after strikes near the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting headquarters in Tehran.
As the situation remains highly volatile, military engagements and reprisals continue across multiple fronts, raising fears of broader escalation in the Middle East and prompting travel warnings and security alerts from governments worldwide.
