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US and Israel launch major attack on Iran to trigger regime change as Tehran retaliates across the Middle East – live
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Original article by Marina Dunbar (now); Taz Ali, Hamish Mackay and Rebecca Ratcliffe (earlier)
House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries has denounced the choice to strike Iran without approval from US Congress.
Jeffries said in a statement that “Iran is a bad actor and must be aggressively confronted for its human rights violations, nuclear ambitions, support of terrorism and the threat it poses to our allies like Israel and Jordan in the region” but added that outside of “exigent circumstances” the president “must seek authorization for the preemptive use of military force that constitutes an act of war.”
Trump “failed to seek Congressional authorization prior to striking Iran,” Jeffries said. He also said that the latest round of strikes “has left American troops vulnerable to Iran’s retaliatory actions.”
Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez said in a statement that “the American people are once again dragged into a war they did not want by a president who does not care about the long-term consequences of his actions. This war is unlawful. It is unnecessary. And it will be catastrophic.”
She then addressed Trump directly, saying “Mr. President: this was not an inevitability. This is a deliberate choice of aggression when diplomacy and security were within reach. Stop lying to the American people.”
201 people killed and 747 injured in Iran, media reports
Iranian media is reporting that 201 people have been killed and 747 people have been injured in the US-Israeli attacks.
Israeli emergency services have reported 94 wounded, including a teenager who was lightly wounded by shrapnel and others affected by blasts. The organization reported that it has provided medical treatment to 89 wounded in minor condition so far.
Updated
US senator Tim Kaine of Virginia has questioned whether Trump has learned anything “from decades of US meddling in Iran and forever wars in the Middle East.”
“For months, I have raised hell about the fact that the American people want lower prices, not more war — especially wars that aren’t authorized by Congress, as required by the Constitution, and don’t have a clear objective,” Kaine said in a statement. “These strikes are a colossal mistake, and I pray they do not cost our sons and daughters in uniform and at embassies throughout the region their lives.”
Kaine also called for the Senate to “immediately return” to the Capitol and vote on whether to authorize or limit US strikes against Iran.
Senator Adam Schiff said in a statement that “Donald Trump is drawing our country into yet another foreign war that Americans don’t want and Congress has not authorized. And he has acknowledged that as a result, American troops may be lost.”
He added: “Senators Kaine, Paul, Schumer and I have introduced another War Powers Resolution to prevent U.S. Armed Forces from taking further action against Iran without authorization from Congress. We should return to session immediately and vote on the resolution.”
Residents in Dubai have said the situation in the emirate deteriorated this afternoon, with people living on the Palm Jumeirah island reporting an explosion there at about 7pm local time.
“It happened about five minutes away from us,” said a Palm Jumeirah resident who shared a video of thick black smoke appearing to rise from the top of a building but who did not want to be named.
Another resident said the situation had deteriorated and everyone is “very scared”.
“There is footage of missile interceptions all over the city,” the person said. “I am packing a suitcase just in case … Not that we can leave, because airspace is closed. It is the thing we have all been frightened about happening, and now it has.”
Updated
Death toll rises to 85 after strike on Iranian school
The death toll from a strike that hit a school in southern Iran has risen to 85 people, an official said on Iranian state TV.
Capt Tim Hawkins, a spokesperson for US Central Command, said he was “aware of reports” that a girls’ school was struck and they were looking into them.
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The White House press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, confirmed the earlier call between Trump and Netanyahu.
“President Trump monitored the situation overnight at Mar a Lago alongside members of his national security team. The President spoke with Prime Minister Netanyahu by phone,” Leavitt wrote on social media. “Prior to the attacks, Secretary Rubio called all members of the gang of eight to provide congressional notification, and he was able to reach and brief seven of the eight members.”
“The President and his national security team will continue to closely monitor the situation throughout the day,” she added.
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In the run-up to the US and Israeli attacks, the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) assessed that even if Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was killed in the operation, he would probably be replaced by hardline figures from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), two sources told Reuters.
The assessments, which were produced over the past two weeks, looked broadly at what could occur in Iran after a US intervention and the extent to which a military operation could trigger regime change in the Islamic Republic – now a pronounced objective for Washington.
The IRGC is an elite military force whose purpose is to protect Shia Muslim clerical rule in Iran.
The intelligence agency reports did not conclude any scenario with certainty, said the sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss intelligence matters.
Updated
US secretary of state Rubio briefed Democratic and Republican 'gang of eight' on strikes, says White House
The White House is telling us that the US secretary of state, Marco Rubio, called top Democratic and Republican lawmakers who are part of the so-called gang of eight to brief them of the strikes before they commenced.
The Pentagon also delivered notifications of the strikes to the House and Senate armed services committees after the operation commenced.
But Democrats in Congress have been very vocal this morning criticizing the Trump administration’s decision to plunge the US into a conflict without congressional authorization.
Jim Himes, the top Democrat on the House intelligence committee who is also part of the Gang of Eight, said in a statement: “Everything I have heard from the administration before and after these strikes on Iran confirms this is a war of choice with no strategic endgame.”
Updated
Democratic senator Elissa Slotkin said in a statement that the US operation against Iran “doesn’t appear to be a one-and-done”, and offered her thoughts for servicemembers and their families in the region.
Slotkin, a Michigan lawmaker, also noted that many of her constituents have family in the Middle East “who are at risk right now as Iran is striking a number of countries”.
“As a former CIA officer who served three tours in Iraq, I have no love lost for the Iranian government,” said Slotkin, who sits on the Senate armed services committee. But she underscored that Donald Trump has not “made his case to the American people”.
She added: “He hasn’t laid out the goals or the imminent threat posed by Iran that justifies risking a wider regional war. And he hasn’t followed the Constitution and brought this issue before Congress before committing our nation to war.”
In the past, leaders including Trump himself have “condemned the rush to war without clear goals in the past,” Slotkin noted.
“He owes the American people the same thing he was demanding of previous presidents if he’s going to put lives at risk. And Congress should come back to Washington to debate these issues,” the senator said.
The five-star Fairmont hotel in Dubai was engulfed in flames after what appeared to be an Iranian retaliatory strike.
Footage circulating on social media shows the moment an object strikes the luxury hotel, followed by a loud explosion. It was not immediately clear whether the building had been hit by a missile or a drone.
Authorities in the UAE emirate of Dubai later confirmed that an incident had occurred at a building in the upscale Palm Jumeirah area. It remains unclear how many casualties there were.
Tens of thousands of international tourists are stuck in the UAE, with airports closed since this morning following the start of joint US and Israeli strikes on Iran. Russia’s tourism authority said that about 50,000 Russian nationals alone were currently in the country.
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Iran closing Strait of Hormuz, EU naval officials reported as saying
An official from the European Union’s naval mission Aspides said that vessels have been receiving VHF transmissions from Iran’s Revolutionary Guards saying “no ship is allowed to pass the Strait of Hormuz,” Reuters has reported.
The UK Maritime Trade Operations agency also said that it received multiple reports from vessels operating in the Gulf saying they had received messages on the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
The strait is the world’s most vital oil export route, which connects the biggest Gulf oil producers, such as Saudi Arabia, Iran, Iraq and the United Arab Emirates, with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea.
The official said Iran had not formally confirmed any such order. Tehran has for years threatened to block the narrow waterway in retaliation for any attack on the Islamic Republic.
Updated
The New York police department says it is strengthening security at sensitive locations around New York City in response to the conflict in Iran.
“The NYPD is closely monitoring events in Iran and the Middle East and coordinating with our federal and international partners,” the department wrote on social media. “As is our protocol and out of an abundance of caution, we will be enhancing patrols to sensitive locations throughout the city, including diplomatic, cultural, religious, and other relevant sites.”
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In pictures: the aftermath of US and Israeli strikes in Tehran
Updated
UN security council to hold emergency meeting
The UN Security Council called an emergency meeting after the US and Israeli attacks on Iran and retaliatory strikes by Tehran.
The emergency session was requested by the permanent missions of France, Bahrain, China, Russia and Colombia, according to a statement by the permanent mission of Russia to the UN.
The session, due to start at 4pm local time (9pm GMT), will address “the situation in the Middle East”, the UN said.
Updated
Netanyahu and Trump hold phone call
The office of Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu has posted a photo on social media showing him holding a phone call.
The post says he was having a conversation with US president Donald Trump. Netanyahu is pictured at a desk with the book Allies at War by Tim Bouverie.
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Imagery captured by Airbus shows the compound associated with Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran appears to have been heavily damaged or destroyed.
The site is widely understood to function as the official residence and administrative compound of Iran’s Supreme Leader.
Iran supreme leader and president still alive, says foreign minister
Abbas Araghchi, the Iranian foreign minister, told NBC News that Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and president Masoud Pezeshkian were still alive “as far as I know”.
“All high ranking officials are alive,” he said. “So everybody is now in its position, and we are handling this situation, and everything is fine.”
Israel said earlier today that its strikes targeted the Iranian regime leadership and military commanders, including Khamenei and Pezeshkian. Their whereabouts is unknown but Iranian media reported that Khamenei is due to speak today.
Maps: US-Israeli joint military operation in Iran, and Tehran's retaliatory strikes
Regime change in Iran is 'mission impossible', says Tehran foreign minister
Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi said Trump’s goal for regime change in Iran is “mission impossible”.
He said Iran is attacking US military facilities in the Middle East region and not “Americans in their land”, but he added that his country was interested in de-escalation and ready to talk once the US-Israeli strikes end.
“There is no communication right now,” he said in an interview with NBC News.
“But if Americans wants to talk to us. They know how they can contact me. We are certainly interested for de-escalation… This is a war of choice by the United States, and they have to pay for that.
“But as far as we are concerned, we don’t want war.”
He added that US forces were attacking Iranians “but this is not what we are going to do”.
He said: “We are attacking the Americans bases, military bases in the region, and military installations and facilities, and this is only as an act of self-defence.”
“We are not the one who starts this aggression,” he added. “It was the United States and Israel who started this aggression. So there is no limit for us to defend ourselves, but once the aggression is stopped, we would also stop our self-defense.”
When asked about Trump’s remarks in a recorded speech about regime change in Iran, Araghchi responded:
“This is mission impossible. You cannot do regime change while millions of people are supporting the so-called regime,” he said, adding that millions of people across Iran came out in support of the government to mark the recent anniversary of the 1979 revolution.
“Yes, there are also people who are complaining, but they are strong supporters of the regime,” he said.
UN secretary general António Guterres condemned the US-Israel military action and Iran’s response.
In a statement, he said:
I call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and de-escalation. Failing to do so risks a wider regional conflict with grave consequences for civilians and regional stability. I strongly encourage all parties to return immediately to the negotiating table.
I reiterate that there is no viable alternative to the peaceful settlement of international disputes, in full accordance with international law, including the UN charter. The charter provides the foundation for the maintenance of international peace and security.
Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is reportedly going to speak soon, according to Iranian media.
We will bring you more as we get it.
Summary of developments so far
The US and Israel have launched a joint military operation against Iran, prompting Tehran to fire retaliatory strikes against Israel and US bases across the Middle East.
Explosions rocked the Iranian capital Tehran, with satellite imagery showing extensive damage at the secure compound of the supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, though his whereabouts remains unclear.
Israel said its strikes targeted the Iranian regime leadership and military commanders, including Khamenei and the Iranian president, Masoud Pezeshkian. Iranian state media, citing Iran’s senior officials, reported that Khamenei was not in Tehran and was taken to a secure location, while Pezeshkian is safe.
Abbas Araghchi, the Iranian foreign minister who has been leading the nuclear talks for the Iranian delegation, promised that Iran’s army “will teach aggressors the lesson they deserve”.
Further explosions were reported in Gulf nations, including the UAE, Bahrain, Qatar and Kuwait, all of which host US military bases. One person was killed from shrapnel from an Iranian missile in Abu Dhabi, UAE officials said.
Donald Trump described the US military campaign as “massive and ongoing” as he called on the people of Iran to “take over your government”. In a speech posted on Truth Social, he said the US would “raze [Iran’s] missile industry to the ground” and claimed Tehran had refused to reach a deal with the US that would have averted war.
The Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, said the American-Israeli attack could “create the conditions for the brave Iranian people to take their destiny into their own hands”.
World leaders have urged all sides to de-escalate and return to the negotiating table. The UK, France and Germany issued a joint statement condemning Iran’s retaliatory attacks on neighbouring countries but it stopped short of complete support for the US-Israeli attacks on Tehran.
The UK prime minister, Keir Starmer, has said British planes “are in the sky today” in the Middle East “as part of coordinated regional defensive operations to protect our people, our interests and our allies”.
Updated
British planes 'in the sky' in Middle East protecting our people, interests and allies, says Starmer
Sir Keir Starmer has said British planes “are in the sky today” in the Middle East “as part of co-ordinated regional defensive operations to protect our people, our interests and our allies”.
He added:
We are also reaching out to UK nationals in the region and doing everything we can to support them.
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Reactions from US lawmakers after Trump strikes Iran
US lawmakers have reacted to the violence erupting in the Middle East.
Jim Himes, a senior Democrat on the US House intelligence committee, said:
Everything I have heard from the administration before and after these strikes on Iran confirms this is a war of choice with no stategic endgame. As I expressed to [secretary of state] Rubio when he briefed the Gang of Eight (senior lawmakers from both parties in the House and Senate), military action in this region almost never ends well for the United States, and conflict with Iran can easily sprial and escalate in ways we cannot anticipate. It does not appear that Donald Trump has learned the lessons of history.
The president’s own statement acknowledges this is war, and the constitution requires the administration to come to Congress for authorisation, something it has not done. Next week, the House will vote on a war powers resolution, and I will support that resolution. In the meantime, I will be praying for the safety of our servicemembers and all civilians who are in harm’s way.
Democratic senator Ed Markey shared this sentiment, saying:
Trump’s military attack on Iran is illegal and unconstitutional. It was not approved by Congress and holds dangers for all Americans. Trump’s illegal actions raise the threat of escalation into a wider regional war with grave risks for US troops and civilians in the region. Trump has exaggerated the imminence of Iran’s nuclear threat, even after insisting the United States ‘obliterated’ Iran’s nuclear programme during his illegal Operation Midnight Hammer attack. Even secretary of state Mark Rubio admitted Iran is not enriching uranium. There was time for diplomacy before this attack, and there still is.
Democrat senator Andy Kim voiced his concern over the strikes, saying:
Americans don’t want to go to war with Iran.
By launching strikes, President Trump has made the same dangerous and foolish decision president [George] Bush did a generation ago. He put Americans in harm’s way without clearly showing there’s an imminent threat to our national security. He put the Iranian people in harm’s way by calling on them to rise up without a broad coalition of partners to assist in their protection. And Trump once again started a cycle of violence that has already escalated and could spiral out of control. This is unacceptable.
Republican senator John Cornyn supported Trump’s decision to strike Iran, saying:
For too long, Iran and its tentacles of terror have destabilised the Middle East and waged war on the west and our values. With today’s strikes by US forces led by our commander-in-chief, president Trump, there is finally an opening for these dark days to come to an end.
It is my hope that the Iranian people, after years of oppression and being ignored by previous Democrat administrations, will finally be free, and I’m proud of the support being provided by president Trump and the United States.
Democrat senator John Fetterman has also come out in support of the strikes, saying:
Operation Epic Fury.
President Trump has been willing to do what’s right and necessary to produce real peace in the region.
God bless the United States, our great military, and Israel.
Republican representative Thomas Massie was against the military action, saying:
I am opposed to this war.
This is not “America First.”
When Congress reconvenes, I will work with [Democratic representative Ro Khanna] to force a Congressional vote on war with Iran.
Irish premier Micheal Martin has said he is “deeply concerned” about the risk of wider conflict in the Middle East after the US and Israel launched missile strikes on Iran.
In a statement, the Toaiseach said:
I am deeply concerned by developments in Iran and the real potential that exists for escalation and wider conflict in the region. I strongly urge all parties to exercise restraint and to work to avoid that outcome.
Ireland has always believed that conflict should be resolved through diplomacy and negotiation, in line with the principles of the UN Charter and international law. That must apply in this situation as much as in any other.
The protection of civilian life in Iran, in Israel and in all neighbouring countries must now be paramount.
UK, Germany and France condemn Iranian attacks
The UK, Germany and France have condemned Iranian attacks on countries in the region, saying Iran must refrain from indiscriminate military strikes.
They did not comment on US and Israeli attacks on Iran.
British prime minister Keir Starmer, French president Emmanuel Macron and German chancellor Friedrich Merz issued a statement Saturday saying their countries didn’t take part in the strikes on Iran but are in close contact with the US, Israel and partners in the region.
The three countries have led efforts to reach a negotiated solution over Iran’s nuclear program.
We condemn Iranian attacks on countries in the region in the strongest terms. Iran must refrain from indiscriminate military strikes. We call for a resumption of negotiations and urge the Iranian leadership to seek a negotiated solution. Ultimately, the Iranian people must be allowed to determine their future.
Pictured: Tehran compound of Iran's supreme leader heavily damaged
Airbus has released this georeferenced image showing damage to the Tehran compound of Iran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei:
Brazil has expressed “grave concern” about strikes launched by the US and Israel against Iran, which has retaliated with wide-ranging missile attacks.
The foreign ministry said in a statement:
The Brazilian government condemns and expresses grave concern regarding the attacks,” the foreign ministry said in a statement.
Brazil calls on all parties to respect international law and exercise maximum restraint in order to avoid an escalation of hostilities and ensure the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure.
The Guardian’s foreign affairs commentator Simon Tisdall writes in his column that, in a world on edge, there was no need for this attack by the US:
They never learn. Once again, a bellicose US president has unleashed overwhelming military firepower to force a sovereign nation to its knees. Once again, blatant lies and exaggerated claims are being propagated to justify the attack. Duplicitous American diplomacy became a fig leaf for premeditated aggression. The cautionary advice of allies was spurned. The UN, international law and public opinion were ignored. Democratic consent is lacking. And once again, there are few defined goals by which to gauge success, and no long-term plan.
Now, as in the past, the predictable result of today’s renewed, expanded and apparently open-ended US-Israeli aggression against Iran will be instant, spreading chaos. Civilians will be killed, children orphaned, families torn apart. Regional turmoil and international oil-price panic will follow the Iranian retaliation that has already begun, and which may be backed by Tehran’s Hezbollah and Houthi allies. New hatreds will be seeded, terrorist vendettas sown. The west’s foes will rejoice. And almost nothing of enduring value will be achieved. That was the bitter outcome of the failed US-led interventions in Afghanistan and Iraq. Today, it’s Tehran’s turn to reap the whirlwind.
How dismaying – how unforgivable! – that those past lessons have not been learned. How incredible that an elected 21st-century American president still believes it’s effective and permissible, let alone moral, to dictate to the world from the barrel of a gun. By what conceivable right does the US behave in this way?
Read his full opinion piece here:
Israel’s energy ministry has ordered the temporary shutdown of parts of the country’s natural gas reservoirs as Iran retaliates against the US-Israeli strikes.
The Leviathan gas field offshore Israel, operated by Chevron has been shut down, three sources told Reuters. Energean’s production vessel that serves several Israeli fields has also been shut down, the company said in a statement.
Across the border from Iran in a separate conflict, Pakistan’s military, backed by artillery and air power, has struck more military installations deep inside Afghanistan.
Pakistan claimed more than 300 Afghan forces had been killed since fighting erupted Thursday night during a broad Afghan cross-border attack into Pakistan. Afghanistan rejected the figures as false. The casualty figures provided by either side could not be independently confirmed.
You can read out analysis of that situation here:
Analysis: Trump’s unprovoked attack on Iran has no mandate – or legal basis
The first war of Donald Trump’s Board of Peace era has begun – an unprovoked attempt at regime change in collaboration with Israel, with no legal foundation, launched in the midst of diplomatic efforts to avert conflict, and with minimal consultation with Congress or the American public.
Trump’s recorded eight-minute address after the first bombs had fallen, made clear that this would be no limited strike aimed at cajoling Tehran into concessions at the negotiating table. He warned that if Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) did not surrender they would be killed, and the country’s armed forces, its missile and navy would be smashed.
The maximalist aims of the joint attack cast doubt on whether there had ever been any prospect of success for the US-Iranian negotiations in the preceding weeks, in which delegates discussed possible limits on uranium enrichment. Those talks, the latest round on Thursday, had been conducted under the shadow of what Trump called his “beautiful armada” gathering in the Middle East, the biggest US force in the region since the ill-fated 2003 Iraq invasion, and it now seems likely that only a complete capitulation on Iran’s part could stop this assembled American might being unleashed.
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World leaders react to attacks
UK prime minister Keir Starmer is chairing a meeting of the UK government’s Cobra emergency committee as Britain decides how to respond to the US-Israeli bombing of Iran, and Tehran’s retaliation against bases in the Gulf.
A government spokesperson said:
“Iran must never be allowed to develop a nuclear weapon and that is why we have continually supported efforts to reach a negotiated solution. Our immediate priority is the safety of UK nationals in the region and we will provide them with consular assistance, available 24/7.
“As part of our longstanding commitments to the security of our allies in the Middle East, we have a range of defensive capabilities in the region, which we have recently bolstered. We stand ready to protect our interests.
“We do not want to see further escalation into a wider regional conflict.”
French president Emmanuel Macron has called for an urgent meeting of the UN Security Council and that his country “stands ready to deploy the necessary resources” to its closest partners in the region.
France hosts several military bases in the Middle East, notably in Qatar, the UAE and Jordan, all countries which have been targeted by Iranian missiles today.
He said:
The ongoing escalation is dangerous for all. It must stop. The Iranian regime must understand that it now has no other option but to engage in good faith in negotiations to end its nuclear and ballistic programs, as well as its regional destabilization activities. This is absolutely necessary for the security of all in the Middle East.
The Iranian people must also be able to freely build their future. The massacres committed by the Islamic regime disqualify it and demand that the voice be returned to the people. The sooner, the better.
European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen called for restraint and described the developments in Iran as “deeply concerning”.
She said:
Ensuring nuclear safety and preventing any actions that could further escalate tensions or undermine the global non-proliferation regime is of critical importance.
Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov condemned the strikes against ally Iran and held a phone call with Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi, his ministry said.
In a statement, the ministry said:
[Lavrov] condemned the unprovoked armed attack by the US and Israel on Iran, which violates the principles and norms of international law and completely disregards the grave consequences for regional and global stability and security.”
The UN human rights chief Volker Türk urged for the bombing to stop as he implored all parties “to see reason” and return to the negotiating table.
He said:
Bombs and missiles are not the way to resolve differences but only result in death, destruction and human misery.
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Iran will 'teach aggressors lesson they deserve', says Tehran foreign minister
Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi, who headed the nuclear talks for the Iranian delegation, vowed that his country would defend itself against the strikes by Israel and the US.
In a defiant message posted on social media, he said:
Netanyahu and Trump’s war on Iran is wholly unprovoked, illegal, and illegitimate.
Trump has turned ‘America First’ into ‘Israel First’— which always means ‘America Last’.
Our powerful armed forces are prepared for this day and will teach the aggressors the lesson they deserve
Cyprus, the EU’s closest state to the Middle East, has activated emergency plans to evacuate third-country nationals from the region.
Within hours of the start of the US-Israeli offensive, the island’s foreign minister, Constantinos Kombos, announced the emergency move.
“We are closely monitoring the developments in the region and remain in constant contact with our diplomatic missions on the ground,” he wrote on X.
“In light of this situation, the special national plan ESTIA has been activated. ESTIA is the ministry of foreign affairs’ emergency action plan, enabling the safe evacuation of EU and third-country nationals from nearby crisis areas in the wider Middle East via Cyprus.”
The government would respond to developments as they unfolded, he said.
Located less than an hour from the coast of Lebanon, the country has frequently operated as a point of refuge at times of crisis with airport facilities in Larnaca being used to evacuate thousands from the Middle East when conflict erupts.
Iran missile strikes Kuwait base hosting Italian troops, official says
An Iranian missile struck a military base in Kuwait hosting Italian troops, causing what officials described as “significant damage” to the runway, according to reports carried by the AFP news agency.
Other sources suggested that one of the projectiles hit a Nato facility in the country, inflicting “extensive damage” on the site.
Italy’s foreign minister, Antonio Tajani, confirmed the attack, saying the base houses around 300 Italian service members. All personnel were reported safe and unharmed.
Oman foreign minister 'dismayed' by attacks, tells US 'this is not your war'
The Omani foreign minister Badr Albusaidi, who has been mediating indirect nuclear talks between the US and Iran over the past month, said he is “dismayed’ by the violence that has erupted in the Middle East.
In a social media post, he said:
I am dismayed. Active and serious negotiations have yet again been undermined. Neither the interests of the United States nor the cause of global peace are well served by this. And I pray for the innocents who will suffer. I urge the United States not to get sucked in further. This is not your war.
You can read our diplomatic editor Patrick Wintour’s analysis on today’s attacks and their impact on the negotiations here:
Qatar’s defence ministry has just issued a statement saying it successfully thwarted a third wave of missiles launched from Iran.
“The ministry confirms that the threat was addressed immediately upon detection and in accordance with pre-approved operational plan,” the statement read.
Saudi Arabia condemns Iran attacks against Gulf nations
Saudi Arabia has condemned the “blatant Iranian aggression” on Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Jordan and the UAE, which have all faced retaliatory strikes.
In a statement posted on social media, it said:
The Kingdom affirms its full solidarity with and unwavering support for the brotherly countries, and its readiness to place all its capabilities at their disposal in support of any measures they may undertake. It also warns of the grave consequences resulting from the continued violation of states’ sovereignty and the principles of international law.
Journalists at the AFP news agency reported several explosions in the Saudi capital Riyadh this morning, although officials have not commented on this.
40 killed in girls' school in Iran after US-Israel attack, state media says
Iran’s state-run IRNA news agency has reported that at least 40 people were killed after an Israeli strike hit a girls’ elementary school in Minab in the southern Hormozgan province.
At least 45 others were wounded in the attack, the news agency reported. It provided no further details about the casualties.
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has a base located in Minab, according to reports.
Bahrain authorities evacuate people from US base location
Bahrain’s interior minister said it has begun to evacuate people from the Juffair area, south-east of the capital Manama, where a US naval base is located.
“We urge your cooperation with the relevant authorities,” the ministry said in a statement posted on social media.
We reported earlier of the multiple explosions near the US navy’s fifth fleet headquarters in Bahrain.
An Israeli military official just held a media briefing, telling journalists that Israel and the US had launched a joint offensive against Iran that had been planned for months and had much more ambitious aims than those of the previous round of conflict between Israel and Iran in June last year.
Describing Iran as an “enormous threat” to Israel, the US, the region and the world, the official said that Israel’s mission was to “significantly reduce and degrade the Iranian regime’s capabilities” and that Israel’s operations would continue “as long as necessary”. The aim was a “bigger change, for years to come”, they said.
The official refused to confirm or deny that Iran’s supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, was among the targets, adding that Iran’s air defence system was one of the priorities for Israel’s initial wave of strikes.
“The Iranian regime has the blood of tens of thousands on its hands … A lot of their leadership is involved in efforts aiming at the destruction of Israel and military planning, so they can be targets,” the official said.
The official said Israel had identified a “sharp acceleration” in the Iran’s production of missiles, as well as efforts to move forward again with its nuclear programme despite the destruction inflicted last year.
“They are developing dozens of ballistic missiles each month, and their pace of production is getting faster and faster,” he said.
“This is a regime that is moving forward towards producing thousands of missiles in the coming years. A dramatic expansion of an already dangerous arsenal,” the source added.
The official said Israel has mobilised 70,000 reservists — mainly air defence staff but also others — and deployed troops to defend its borders against any scenario.
Airlines that have cancelled flights to the region
Aegean Airlines – flights to and from Tel Aviv in Israel, Beirut in Lebanon and Erbil in Iraq until 2 March.
Air France – cancelled flights to and from Tel Aviv in Israel and Beirut in Lebanon today.
British Airways – cancelled flights to Tel Aviv and Bahrain until 3 March and its flight to Amman in Jordan today.
Iberia Express – cancelled a flight to Tel Aviv scheduled for today.
Japan Airlines – cancelled a flight today from Tokyo Haneda to Doha in Qatar as well as a return flight on 1 March.
Lufthansa – suspended flights to and from Tel Aviv in Israel, Beirut in Lebanon, and Oman until 7 March and flights to and from Dubai in the UAE this weekend.
Norwegian Air – suspended all flights to and from Dubai until 4 March.
Turkish Airlines – cancelled flights to Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, the UAE and Oman today and flights to Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Iran and Jordan until 2 March.
Virgin Atlantic – cancelled its VS400 service from London Heathrow to Dubai today.
Qatar Airways – suspended flights to and from Doha due to the closure of Qatari airspace.
Wizz Air – halted flights to and from Israel, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Amman with until 7 March.
Picures: Israelis seek shelter amid Iranian missile strikes
Videos and images filtering out of Iran on public Telegram channels appear to record extensive strikes across the country; with smoke hovering over buildings, the noise of car horns honking, conversation, and occasional cheering, and fires and jets tearing across the sky.
These videos, many of which appear to be from Iranian civilians, suggest there have so far been strikes in Kermanshah, near the border with Iraq, in the city of Minab, Homorzgan province, on the IRGC brigade there, in the city of Bushhehr, on the Persian Gulf, and on Iranian army bases near Chabahar, near the border with Pakistan.
They also appear to indicate extensive strikes on Tehran.
More videos suggest that the military complex in Parchin, which allegedly produces chemical weapons, has been struck. So has a site in Kahrizak, where thousands of protestors were massacred earlier this month, as well as an IRGC base near Mount Damarvand. One more video appears to indicate that the house of former president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad has been struck, in downtown Tehran; in the video, crowds of people wander about, filming the low flames.
British Airways cancels flights to Tel Aviv and Bahrain
British Airways said it has cancelled flights to and from Tel Aviv and Bahrain until 3 March because of the US-Israel airstrikes and Iran’s retaliation.
It has also cancelled today’s flights to Amman in Jordan, which has also been reportedly targeted by Iranian strikes.
“We are closely monitoring the situation and have taken the operational decision to cancel our flights to Tel Aviv and Bahrain up to and including 03 March and have cancelled today’s service to Amman,” the airline said in a statement.
“Safety is always our top priority, and we’re contacting our customers to advise them of their travel options.”
It comes as Heathrow airport advised passengers to check with their airlines for the status of their flights, as some have been cancelled or delayed “due to the ongoing situation in the Middle East and resulting airspace closures”.
Ben Gurion airport in Israel was still busy at 4am this morning as some of the last flights into Israel touched down. Some flew in almost empty, with pilots simply warning passengers that they would be “updated” if “anything changed” during the flight. But there was no sense that conflict was imminent. The roads were clear. The country apparently calm.
Many in Israel had spent the early morning or even the whole night expecting war and a new round of missile attacks. Just after 10am it became very clear the new conflict was underway as telephone alerts went off everywhere of incoming missiles and sirens sounded. Since, they have barely stopped, and have often been followed by repeated explosions powerful enough to rattle windows. Warplanes have flown low overhead multiple times.
“The war has started, I am running home to my children,” Abbas, a doctor in East Jerusalem, told me. Others were making their way to work, and said they were unconcerned. But traffic and streets quickly cleared as many rushed to public shelters or home. Buses are now lined up in depots, going nowhere for the moment, and the alerts and the explosions keep coming.
What we know so far
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) says it has fired missiles against US military bases in the Gulf in retaliation against the major US-Israel attack on Iran. Explosions were reported in Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE and Qatar. One person has been killed from shrapnel from an Iranian missile in the UAE, officials said.
Explosions shook the Iranian capital Tehran, where people reported seeing smoke rising from the district that includes the presidential palace.
Iran has also launched multiple waves of missiles at Israel, with blasts reported in the skies over Jerusalem. The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said air defence systems were working to shoot down the “barrage of missiles” launched from Iran.
Israeli officials told media that top Iranian regime and military leaders, including Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and president Masoud Pezeshkian, were targeted in the attacks.
It is believed that Khamenei is not in Tehran and has been taken to a secure location, while Iranian media is reporting that Pezeshkian is safe.
US president Donald Trump has vowed that the “massive and ongoing” campaign against Iran would crush its military, eliminate its nuclear programme and bring about a change in government. “Our objective is to defend the American people by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime, a vicious group of very hard, terrible people,” he said.
Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the “joint operation” against the Iranian government could “create the conditions for the brave Iranian people to take their destiny into their own hands”.
Talks between the US and Iran on Tehran’s nuclear programme ended inconclusively on Friday, with a suggestion that further discussions would be held next week. Trump had said he was “not happy” with the progress of discussions.
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Iran's supreme leader and president were targets of attack - reports
Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and president Masoud Pezeshkian were targeted in the US-Israeli strikes, an Israeli official told the Times of Israel.
Other top regime and military commanders were also targeted, the official added, without providing names. The results of the strikes are currently unclear, the official said.
It is believed that Khamenei is not in Tehran and has been taken to a secure location.
Iran’s Tasnim news agency reported that Pezeshkian is “in full health”, citing a source close to the presidency.
Iran’s supreme national security council has issued a statement urging citizens to try to leave Tehran and major cities that face an attack. A large exodus fron Tehran occurred during the 10-day war last June with many heading to family in the countryside. It may also be that the authorities are anxious about street protests restarting as calls are being made from the diaspora to relaunch the protests.
The statement reads:
According to information obtained from these two corrupt regimes, their operations will continue in Tehran and some other cities. Therefore, as much as possible, while maintaining calm, travel to other centres and cities if possible to stay safe from the malice of these two regimes.
The government insists it has “prepared all the needs of society, and there is no concern about the supply of public necessities. People should avoid crowding in shopping centres as it may pose risks to them”.
It added: “Schools and universities will be closed until further notice, banks will continue to operate and government offices will operate at 50% capacity.”
Analysis: Yet another mid-talks attack jeopardises chances of Iran taking Trump seriously
The attack mounted jointly by Israel and the US on Iran had been planned for months, but the timing, in the midst of negotiations between Iran and the US, will again raise questions about whether Washington was ever serious about striking a deal with Tehran.
In June last year, Israel, with the US later in tow, launched a 10-day attack on Iran just three days before Iran and the US were due to meet for a sixth set of talks.
So this assault, in the middle of a second negotiation process, must torpedo the chances of the Iranian regime ever taking a US offer of talks seriously. They have been stung twice. As one Iranian Telegram channel put it: “Once again the US attacked while Iran was pursuing diplomacy. Once again diplomacy does not work with the terrorist state of the US.”
Read the full piece here:
Foreign office issues warning to British nationals in region amid attacks
The foreign office has issued a warning to British nationals in the region to seek shelter and stay indoors.
It said: “Due to reported missile attacks, British nationals in Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and United Arab Emirates should immediately shelter in place. Remain indoors in a secure location, avoid all travel and follow instructions from the local authorities.”
We pictures from the newswires of the blasts in the Bahraini capital Manama, where the US navy’s fifth fleet is based.
One person killed in Abu Dhabi, says UAE defence ministry
One person has been killed in Abu Dhabi in the UAE after several missiles launched from Iran were intercepted, according to the Emirati defence ministry.
In a statement posted on social media, it said:
The UAE announced that it successfully intercepted a number of Iranian missiles targeting the country. The ministry of defence stated that the United Arab Emirates was subjected to a blatant attack today by Iranian ballistic missiles. The UAE’s air defences responded with high efficiency and successfully intercepted a number of the missiles. The relevant authorities also dealt with debris falling on a residential area in Abu Dhabi, resulting in some material damage and the death of an Asian national.
It continued:
The ministry emphasised that this targeting is a flagrant violation of national sovereignty and international law, and that the UAE reserves its full right to respond to this escalation and take all necessary measures to protect its territory, its people, and its residents, ensuring the preservation of its sovereignty, security, and stability, and safeguarding its national interests and resources. The ministry affirmed its readiness to address any threats and stated that it is taking all necessary measures to firmly counter anything that aims to undermine the security and stability of the nation. It added that the safety of citizens, residents, and visitors is a paramount priority that cannot be compromised. The ministry urges the public to obtain information from official state sources and to avoid circulating rumours or unreliable information
There are also separate reports of multiple explosions in Dubai.
Iran targets US bases in Kuwait, UAE, Qatar and Bahrain
The Iranian semi-official Fars news agency has reported that Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) have targeted US bases in Kuwait, the UAE, Qatar and Bahrain.
According to the news agency, these include:
Al-Udeid air base in Qatar
Al-Salem air base in Kuwait
Al-Dhafra air base in the UAE
The fifth fleet in Bahrain
Qatar’s defense ministry said it intercepted all missiles fired at its territory as blasts were reported in the capital Doha, according to Reuters news agency.
Bahrain has confirmed its territory was targeted by missiles, including at the US navy base.
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Iran’s foreign ministry issued a statement condemning the attacks as a violation of the UN charter and calling on all states, especially Islamic states, to condemn America’s aggression firmly and for the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres to assume his responsibilities.
The statement said: “At a time when the great test of history has arrived, the armed forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran, inspired by the great epic heritage of this land and relying on God almighty, with faith in the promise of divine victory and relying on national power, will not hesitate to defend our beloved homeland with all their might.
“History is proof that Iranians have never surrendered to foreign aggression; this time too, the response of the Iranian nation will be decisive and will make the aggressors regret their criminal act.”
The ministry said the Iranian people would be proud that they had tried to do all they could to prevent the criminal aggression through diplomacy
“Now is the time to defend the homeland and confront the enemy’s military aggression. We have been more prepared for defence than ever before, as we promised.
“All member states of the United Nations, especially regional and Islamic countries, members of the Non-Aligned Movement and all states that feel responsible for international peace and security, are expected to firmly condemn this act of aggression and take immediate and collective action to confront it, which has undoubtedly exposed the peace and security of the region and the world to an unprecedented threat.”
US navy fleet 'subject to missile attack' in Bahrain
Bahrain has confirmed that the US navy’s fifth fleet in Manama has come under attack.
In a brief statement via the Bahrain News Agency, the country’s national communication centre said: “The service centre of the fifth fleet has been subjected to a missile attack.
”Further details will be provided in due course.
”The public is urged to follow instructions issued by the relevant official authorities and to obtain information from official sources only.”
Iran launch missiles at US base in Bahrain - report
Iran’s semi-official Fars news agency has reported that Iran conducted missile attacks on a US base in Bahrain.
The US navy’s fifth fleet headquarters is located in the capital Manama.
Gulf countries close airspace
Qatar, Kuwait and the UAE have closed their airspace after reports of explosions across the region.
So far, there have been reports of explosions in Abu Dhabi in the UAE, Manama in Bahrain, Kuwait and Qatar.
The UK should resist being drawn into a conflict in the Middle East, a senior Labour MP has said.
Dame Emily Thornberry, chairwoman of the Commons Foreign Affairs Committee, told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme she did not think the US-Israeli strikes were legal.
She said: “As far as I’m aware, we’re not involved in this. There’s not been British agreement to be involved in this, and I think that’s the right thing to do. I don’t think that there’s a legal basis for for this action.”
She added: “They were not under imminent threat, and so it’s therefore difficult to to see what the legal justification is.”
Asked whether the UK should resist being drawn into the conflict, Dame Emily said: “Absolutely, unless we’re attacked ourselves, which, as I say, unfortunately this morning, we don’t know whether we will be because there may be attacks by the Iranians on Western bases in the Arab Gulf, and so then the situation may change.
“We just don’t know.”
The US strike on Iran revealed Donald Trump’s “true colours”, Dmitry Medvedev said in one of the first reactions from Moscow.
Medvedev, the deputy chairman of Russia’s security council and former president, accused Washington of using negotiations with Tehran as a pretext for military action.
“No one was ever really interested in negotiating,” he wrote on Telegram.
The joint US–Israel attack on Iran has put Vladimir Putin in a very tough spot.
Tehran is one of Moscow’s staunchest allies and has supported Russia’s war effort in Ukraine by supplying drones and missiles.
Meanwhile, Iran recently signed an arms agreement with Russia to acquire thousands of advanced shoulder-fired missiles to strengthen its air defences.
But despite the risk of losing a key ally, Putin is unlikely to directly confront Trump. The Kremlin leader does not want to alienate him, viewing his support as crucial to increasing pressure on Ukraine to concede to Russia’s demands in the ongoing war with Kyiv.
Iranian officials 'main target' of US-Israel strikes - reports
Iranian officials were the main target of the US-Israel strikes on Iran, sources have told Reuters news agency and the New York Times.
Three Israeli officials familiar with the matter said that if the US and Israel want to kill Iran’s top officials, they had to try and do so in the first wave of strikes, the New York Times reported.
Explosions have now been reported in Kuwait, again another location with multiple US military bases. There are as many as 13,500 US troops stationed in the country, according to some estimates.
Added to the list of airlines cancelling flights after the Iran attacks (see here) is Air France, which has suspended flights to Tel Aviv and Beirut today.
Various media are reporting explosions in Bahrain and Abu Dhabi in the UAE, both places where there are US military bases. These reports are yet to be confirmed.
Authorities in Qatar – another location which houses a US military base – have issued mobile phone alerts urging people to stay indoors, according to Al Jazeera. Earlier, the Qatar defence ministry said that an Iranian missile was intercepted by its air defence systems.
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A short while ago, Israel confirmed Iran had launched retaliatory missile attacks. We’re getting images sent to us from Israel now:
'No red lines' in Iran's response to attacks, says official
A senior Iranian official said there would be “no red lines” to the regime’s response to the Israeli and US strikes on Iran.
“We are telling Israel clearly to prepare for what is coming,” the official told Al Jazeera.
“Our response will be public, and there are no red lines… All American and Israeli assets and interests in the Middle East have become legitimate targets.”
Flights suspended and airspaces closed in region
Wizz Air has suspended all flights to and from Israel, Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the UAE and Amman in Jordan, effective immediately until 7 March.
Lufthansa has suspended flights to and from Dubai, Tel Aviv in Israel, Beirut in Lebanon and Muscat in Oman this weekend.
KLM has cancelled flights from Amsterdam to Tel Aviv.
Oman Air has suspended all flights to Iran and Israel.
Kuwait has suspended all flights to Iran until further notice.
Israel has cancelled all civilian flights and closed its airspace.
A former UK national security adviser said US and Israeli strikes against Iran were not “legal in a way that the UK would recognise”.
Lord Peter Ricketts told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme: “None of this, I think, is in any sense legal in a way that the UK would recognise.
“There was really no imminent threat to the US. This is action that they chose to undertake, or were dragged into it by the Israelis.”
Lord Ricketts added that the Israeli government had “pre-empted any risk that the US-Iranian negotiations were going to reach some sort of deal on the nuclear programme”.
What we know so far
The US has launched “major combat operations” in Iran, designed to eliminate “imminent threats” from the country’s regime, Donald Trump announced on Saturday.
The operation is “massive and ongoing”, the US president said in a video on social media, pledging to use “overwhelming strength and devastating force” to destroy Iranian missiles and ensure it cannot develop a nuclear weapon.
Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the attacks aimed to “remove the existential threat” posed by the Iranian regime, as he urged the people of Iran to topple the government.
A short time beforehand, Israel said it had launched “preventative” strikes on Iran.
Sirens were sounded in Israel as the IDF said Iran had fired a “barrage of missiles” in retaliation.
Explosions were heard in Tehran, the Iranian capital, where smoke could be seen rising on the skyline, and several other cities. Iran has closed its airspace.
“The hour of your freedom is at hand,” Trump told Iranian citizens, urging them to “take over your government” once the operation is over.
Talks between the US and Iran on Tehran’s nuclear programme ended inconclusively on Friday, with a suggestion that further discussions would be held next week. Trump had said he was “not happy” with the progress of discussions.
Iran’s supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is not in Tehran, and has been transferred to a secure location, an official told Reuters on Saturday.
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Netanyahu: Attacks on Iran to remove 'existential threat'
Netanyahu said the attacks on Iran were aimed at removing an “existential threat” as he thanked his “great friend” Trump.
He said:
Israel and the United States embarked on an operation to remove the existential threat posed by the terrorist regime in Iran. I thank our great friend, president Donald Trump, for his historic leadership.
Netanyahu: US-Israel attacks against Iran will allow Iranians to topple Ayatollah regime
Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued a recorded speech to the nation, saying the joint US-Israeli attacks against Iran will allow for the Iranian people to topple the regime and establish a “free, peace-seeking Iran”.
He said:
For 47 years, the Ayatollah regime has cried ‘Death to Israel’, ‘Death to America’. It spilled our blood, murdered many Americans and slaughtered its own people. We must not allow this murderous terrorist regime to arm itself with nuclear weapons that will allow it to endanger all of humanity.
It’s time for all the people of Iran – Persians, Kurds, Azeris, Balochis and Akhvakhs – to shed from themselves the burden of tyranny and bring forth a free and peace-seeking Iran.
Netanyahu said the operation will allow for the Iranian people “to seize their fate”.
The IDF is reporting that Iran is continuing to launch a “barrage of missiles” at Israel.
'Take over your government', Trump tells Iranian people
Trump ended his eight-minute speech on Truth Social by addressing the Iranian people, telling them to “take over your government”.
He said:
Finally, to the great, proud people of Iran, I say tonight that the hour of your freedom is at hand. Stay sheltered. Don’t leave your home. It’s very dangerous outside. Bombs will be dropping everywhere. When we are finished, take over your government. It will be yours to take. This will be probably your only chance for generations. For many years, you have asked for America’s help. But you never got it. No president was willing to do what I am willing to do tonight. Now you have a president who is giving you what you want. So let’s see how you respond. America is backing you with overwhelming strength and devastating force. Now is the time to seize control of your destiny and to unleash the prosperous and glorious future that is close within your reach. This is the moment for action. Do not let it pass.
Iran launched missiles at Israel, says IDF
The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said missiles were launched from Iran towards Israel this morning.
In statement posted on X, it said: “Defensive systems are operating to intercept the threat. In the past few minutes, the home front command has sent a precautionary directive directly to mobile phones in the relevant areas.
“Sirens were sounded in several areas across the country following the identification of missiles launched from Iran toward Israel. At this time, the IAF (Israeli Air Force) is operating to intercept and strike threats where necessary to remove the threat.”
The Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu is issuing a statement, according to Reuters news agency. We shall bring you more when we get it.
Tehran residents had reported two rounds of explosions by 10.30am focussed on the Pasteur area of the capital where the presidential office is situated along with the offices of the national security council. Wounded were being taken away in ambulances
Attacks were also mounted on the offices of the supreme leader and the assembly of experts, the body that chooses the Iranian supreme leader. The aim appeared to be to try to damage the political leadership of Iran. Iranian sources said the supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was not in Tehran but in a safe undisclosed location.
No assassination of any official was confirmed, despite rumours that the president, Masud Pezeshkhian, had been targeted.
The headquarters of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps was also attacked and a significant number of deaths and injuries were being reported.
But explosions were being reported across the country including in Qom, Tabriz Kermanshah Lorestan Khorramabad and Karaj.
Cyber attacks were also underway and Iranian residents reported that the internet was slowing making reporting of what is happening harder.
Ebrahim Azizi, the chairman of the parliament’s national security commission, wrote on X: “We warned you, but now you have started down a path that is beyond your control.”
Iranian officials vowed a crushing response and seemed to believe this was the start of a full scale military exchange, and not a limited US action designed to force Iran to change its negotiating position.
Iran has also closed its airspace and issued advice to civilians on how to avoid bombings. It is not clear if the Tehran underground systems will be opened as shelters.
Schools and workplaces closed in Jerusalem until Monday
Authorities in Jerusalem have ordered schools and workplaces to remain shut until Monday with people urged to avoid going out unless they are an essential worker.
The home front command in Jerusalem, a regional district of the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) responsible for emergencies, said: “There will be no educational activities, no gatherings, and no going to work, except for workers defined as essential. This policy is in effect from Saturday (2/28) at 8am (6am GMT) until Monday (3/2) at 8pm (6pm GMT).”
'We are going to raze their missile industry to the ground' - Trump
Here are some more lines from Trump’s statement on Truth Social.
The United States military has undertaken a massive and ongoing operation to prevent this very wicked, radical dictatorship from threatening America and our core national security interests. We are going to destroy their missiles and raze their missile industry to the ground. It will be totally, again, obliterated. We are going to annihilate their navy. We are going to ensure that the region’s terrorist proxies can no longer destabilise the region or the world, and attack our forces, and no longer use their IEDs - or roadside bombs, as they are sometimes called - to so gravely wound and kill thousands and thousands of people including many Americans. And we will ensure that Iran does not obtain a nuclear weapon.
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Lay down your arms or 'face certain death', Trump tells Revolutionary Guards
In a video posted on Truth Social, Trump has told the Revolutionary Guards to lay down their arms, saying: “You will be treated fairly with total immunity or you will face certain death.”
Trump has accused Iran of developing long-range missiles that threaten the US and others.
He said the US will “raze their missile industry to the ground” and “annihilate their navy”.
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US military has launched 'major combat operations' in Iran - Trump
Trump says the US military has launched “major combat operations” in Iran, saying the country had attempted to rebuild its nuclear programme.
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Sirens sounded across Israel just after 8am on Saturday, waking up anyone who was still asleep, and alerting the population that another war had begun.
Less than a year after Israel’s last war with Iran, which involved ballistic missile strikes on towns and cities across the country, citizens were warned to stay near shelters and be alert to air-raid warnings.
Air space was closed, with civilian flights cancelled and travellers turned away from the main Ben Gurion airport.
Saturday is a quiet day in Israel, when observant Jews avoid using phones and transport, and most shops and businesses are closed, so the disruptions caused by war were less immediately obvious.
But schools and universities will be closed on Sunday and Monday, and the large Sheba medical centre near Tel Aviv announced it would shift patients to underground wards.
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Mobile phone services cut in Iran
Mobile phone services have been cut in Iran after the Israeli attacks, according to a report from Associated Press.
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Blasts heard in several cities - reports
Blasts have been heard in several cities, including the capital, Tehran, and Isfahan in central Iran.
Reuters reports there are long queues at petrol stations in the capital, as many people try to leave. An unnamed Iranian official who spoke to the news agency said several ministries in southern Tehran had been targeted.
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Images show smoke rising from Tehran
Some more photos are coming through of smoke on the Tehran skyline:
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The Iraq transport ministry said on Saturday it has also closed national airspace after Israel launched what its defence minister described as a pre-emptive attack against Iran, the state news agency said.
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Iran closes its airspace
Iran has closed its airspace until further notice, the civil aviation authority has said, according to a report from Agence France-Presse.
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Israel closed its airspace to civilian flights on Saturday after announcing “preventive strikes” on Iran and sounding sirens in Jerusalem.
“Following the security developments, the Minister of Transportation has ordered the Director of the Israel Civil Aviation Authority to close the airspace of the State of Israel to civilian flights,” the minister, Miri Regev, announced.
Reports are emerging that the US is involved in Israel’s strikes on Iran’s capital.
Associated Press reported that a US official and a person familiar with the operation said the US is participating in the Israeli strikes. They spoke on condition of anonymity, AP said.
Reuters has also cited an unnamed Israeli defence official as saying the Israeli operation in Iran was coordinated with the US.
The Guardian has been unable to confirm this.
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Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is not in Tehran
Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is not in Tehran and has been transferred to a secure location, an official told Reuters on Saturday.
Israel said it launched a pre-emptive attack against Iran on Saturday, with multiple explosions reported in Tehran.
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Loud blasts and columns of smoke in Tehran, report AFP journalists
Two loud blasts were heard in Tehran on Saturday morning by Agence France-Presse journalists, and two plumes of thick smoke were seen over the centre and east of the Iranian capital.
“The type of explosions suggests that this is a missile attack,” the Fars news agency reported, without immediately providing further details.
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Israel strikes Iran
Israel says it has launched a “preventative” strike on Iran and is preparing for retaliation.
On Friday, Donald Trump said he had not made a final decision on whether to launch US strikes on Iran, but added he was “not happy” with the situation, and that military force, including regime change, remained an option.
Talks between the US and Iran on Tehran’s nuclear programme ended inconclusively, with a suggestion that further discussions would be held next week.
It comes amid a large buildup of US naval forces in the Middle East, including repositioning aircraft carriers and other warships.
Trump had previously given Tehran a deadline of 10 to 15 days to make a deal to resolve their longstanding nuclear dispute or face “really bad things”.
It came as Iran accused the US of spreading “big lies” about its missiles programme, after Trump claimed Tehran was building weapons that could strike the US.
During his State of the Union speech, the US president said Iran has “already developed missiles that can threaten Europe and our bases overseas, and they’re working to build missiles that will soon reach” the US.
He described Iran as “the world’s number one sponsor of terror” and claimed at least 32,000 protesters were killed during recent unrest in the country.
The Iranian foreign ministry spokesperson, Esmail Baqaei, rejected those claims, without mentioning Trump directly. “Whatever they’re alleging in regards to Iran’s nuclear programme, Iran’s ballistic missiles, and the number of casualties during January’s unrest, is simply the repetition of ‘big lies’,” he posted on X.
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Key event
We are starting our live coverage as Israel says it has launched a strike on Iran. We’ll keep you abreast of developments as they happen.
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