The United States and Israel on Saturday launched coordinated military strikes on Iran, with initial reports indicating that one of the first targets was an area near the offices of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran.
Smoke was seen rising over the capital as Iranian state media reported explosions and attacks across several locations nationwide.
In remarks posted on social media, US President Donald Trump confirmed the operation, stating: “The US has begun major combat operations in Iran,” citing concerns over Tehran’s nuclear programme and missile development capabilities that could potentially reach American territory.
Prior to the strikes, Washington had significantly increased its military presence in the Middle East, describing the move as part of efforts to pressure Tehran into reaching a nuclear agreement and halting nationwide protests.
Iran’s Supreme National Security Council announced that its armed forces had “commenced a decisive response to these hostile acts,” urging residents to steer clear of targeted areas. Authorities ordered the closure of schools and universities but said banks would remain open. The council added that the government had made “prior arrangements” to guarantee the supply of essential goods.
In Europe, the government of Germany confirmed it had been informed in advance of Israel’s military action and was closely monitoring developments. Chancellor Friedrich Merz was said to be consulting with ministers and European partners. German nationals in Iran, Israel and across the region were advised to register with official consular systems and comply with local safety directives.
Meanwhile, two officials from Iran-backed militias in Iraq disclosed that Iranian forces and allied Iraqi groups had prepared coordinated responses in the event of an attack. The plans reportedly include potential strikes on US forces stationed in Iraq’s Kurdish region and neighbouring Jordan.
Kataib Hezbollah, one of the prominent Iraqi militias aligned with Tehran, warned of a prolonged confrontation and cautioned the Kurdish regional government against cooperating with what it described as hostile foreign forces.
The Israel Defense Forces issued a warning in Persian on X, urging civilians to immediately evacuate areas near weapons production sites and military facilities. “Your presence in these locations puts your lives at risk,” the statement read.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry condemned the strikes, declaring: “The time has come to defend the homeland and confront the enemy’s military assault. The armed forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran will decisively respond to the aggressors with full authority.”
The situation remains fluid, with fears of wider regional escalation mounting as both sides signal readiness for further action.
