US-Israeli strikes target top Iranian leadership, Tehran retaliates across Middle East; Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah hit


Israel and the United States on Saturday launched joint military strikes on Iran, targeting top leadership, including the country’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s office, and key military sites.

Both US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated the strikes were aimed at regime change. In a video message, Trump promised immunity to Iranian forces but warned of “certain death” if they didn’t lay down their weapons.

The attack follows a large US military buildup in the Middle East and comes against the backdrop of tensions between Washington and Tehran over nuclear deal talks.

An Israeli-US strike reportedly hit a primary school building in Iran. According to local media reports, the building was struck at around 11:30 am local time, killing over 50 students.

In retaliation, Iran targeted US military bases in the Middle East, sparking fears of a wider regional conflict. Tehran also launched missiles towards Israel, but most of them were reportedly intercepted, causing little damage.

Below are the Top Updates on US-Israel attack on Iran

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has spoken with US President Donald Trump as Israel faces Iranian retaliatory strikes.

Iran launches attack on Dubai, Burz Khalifa evacuated

Iran has intensified its attacks on US bases and launched fresh strikes on several Middle Eastern countries. Tehran has launches missile on Dubai, the commerical hub of the UAE, which houses US military bases.

According to the government of Dubai's Media Office, "an incident occurred in a building in the Palm Jumeirah area".

While the exact nature of the incident was not yet clear, a fire had broken out and smoke was seen rising in the area.

Four people were reportedly injured in the incident. The authroties have also evacuated Burj Khalifa.

'Khamenei is alive:' Iranian FM rubbishes Israeli media reports

Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, has dismissed Israeli media reports that Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was likely killed in the US-Israeli strikes. He said that Khemnei was alive as far as he knew. "All high-ranking officials are alive,” he says. “So everybody is now in its position [sic], and we are handling this situation, and everything is fine,” he added.

UK PM says British planes participating in strikes against Iran

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, in a televised address, has said that British forces and planes were participating in coordinated defensive efforts to protect the country’s interests and allies. He further urged Iran to "refrain from further strikes and cease violence and oppression against its people". Starmer stressed that all sides should return to a diplomatic process.

Israel’s war is not with the Iranian people, but only with the regime: IDF

Meanwhile, the IDF issued a message to the people of Iran. The message delivered in Persian, the IDF said that Israel’s war is not with the Iranian people, but only with the regime.

“The Islamic Republic dragged the region into this campaign, but this is not our war with the Iranian people. The regime is responsible for squandering the people’s resources on terror organizations, missiles, and a murderous nuclear program against Israel and the region,” said Persian-language spokesman Lt. Col. Kamal Penhasi in a video.

“The regime will continue to threaten and tell you lies through its various channels, but we urge you to listen only to our official Persian-language channels,” he stated.

“Israel is acting in coordination with the United States solely against the regime as part of our right to defend ourselves. We are not enemies of the Iranian people, but enemies of the dictatorship that oppresses them,” Penhasi added.

https://twitter.com/IDFFarsi/status/2027757611144171988

Israel’s war is not with the Iranian people, but only with the regime: IDF

Meanwhile, the IDF issued a message to the people of Iran. The message delivered in Persian, the IDF said that Israel’s war is not with the Iranian people, but only with the regime.

“The Islamic Republic dragged the region into this campaign, but this is not our war with the Iranian people. The regime is responsible for squandering the people’s resources on terror organizations, missiles, and a murderous nuclear program against Israel and the region,” said Persian-language spokesman Lt. Col. Kamal Penhasi in a video.

“The regime will continue to threaten and tell you lies through its various channels, but we urge you to listen only to our official Persian-language channels,” he stated.

“Israel is acting in coordination with the United States solely against the regime as part of our right to defend ourselves. We are not enemies of the Iranian people, but enemies of the dictatorship that oppresses them,” Penhasi added.

https://twitter.com/IDFFarsi/status/2027757611144171988

Israel’s war is not with the Iranian people, but only with the regime: IDF

Meanwhile, the IDF issued a message to the people of Iran. The message delivered in Persian, the IDF said that Israel’s war is not with the Iranian people, but only with the regime.

“The Islamic Republic dragged the region into this campaign, but this is not our war with the Iranian people. The regime is responsible for squandering the people’s resources on terror organizations, missiles, and a murderous nuclear program against Israel and the region,” said Persian-language spokesman Lt. Col. Kamal Penhasi in a video.

“The regime will continue to threaten and tell you lies through its various channels, but we urge you to listen only to our official Persian-language channels,” he stated.

“Israel is acting in coordination with the United States solely against the regime as part of our right to defend ourselves. We are not enemies of the Iranian people, but enemies of the dictatorship that oppresses them,” Penhasi added.

https://twitter.com/IDFFarsi/status/2027757611144171988

BREAKING NEWS: Iran's Defence Minister Amir Nasirzadeh killed in US-Israeli strikes, reports Reuters

Iran's Defence Minister Amir Nasirzadeh and Revolutionary Guards commander Mohammed Pakpour have been killed in the US and Israeli strikes earlier today, reports news agency Reuters, citing sources.

India says deeply concerned with developments, urges all sides to avoid escalation

India on Saturday said that it remains deeply concerned at the recent developments in Iran and the Gulf region and urged all sides to exercise restraint, avoid escalation, and prioritise the safety of civilians.

“India is deeply concerned at the recent developments in Iran and the Gulf region. We urge all sides to exercise restraint, avoid escalation, and prioritise the safety of civilians. Dialogue and diplomacy should be pursued to de-escalate tensions and address underlying issues. Sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states must be respected,” read a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

“Our Missions in the region are in touch with Indian nationals and have issued appropriate advisories asking them to remain vigilant, stay in contact with the Missions, and follow local security guidance,” MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal mentioned.

Qatar "successfully intercepts, repels" multiple attacks targeting country, says MoD

Amid the mounting conflict across West Asia, the Qatari defence forces "successfully intercepted and repelled a number of attacks that targeted the country's territory" on Saturday, according to the Qatar Ministry of Defense.

"The Ministry affirmed that the threat was addressed immediately upon detection and in accordance with the pre-approved security plan, with all missiles being intercepted before reaching Qatari territory," the statement read.

Indian Embassies in the Middle East ask citizens to avoid unnecessary travel

The Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi on Saturday issued an advisory for Indian students in the UAE to avoid unnecessary travel. The advisory was one of the many issued by Indian missions in the Middle East.

The advisories asked Indian nationals to avoid unnecessary travel, take due care, remain vigilant, follow safety guidelines and advisories as and when issued by the authorities and the Embassies.

Russia condemns US-Israel strikes on Iran, offers help in peace talks
Russian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova on Saturday condemned the US strikes on Iran and offered to help wherever needed. Zakharova in her statement said that Russia urged the parties to return to a path of diplomacy.

"The serial nature of the destabilizing attacks carried out by the U.S. Administration over the past few months against the international legal pillars of the world order, including non-interference in internal affairs, renunciation of the threat or use of force, and the peaceful resolution of international disputes, is particularly alarming. We demand an immediate return to the path of a political and diplomatic settlement. Russia, as before, is ready to facilitate the search for peaceful solutions based on international law, mutual respect, and a balance of interests," she said.

Oman, the mediator of US-Iran talks, urges the US to pull back
Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi, who has been mediating US-Iran nuclear deal talks, has said that he is "dismayed" by the US attack on Iran and urged Washington pull back.

“I am dismayed. Active and serious negotiations have yet again been undermined,” Badr Albusaidi said in a statement on X. “I urge the United States not to get sucked in further. This is not your war,” he added

At least three blasts heard in Dubai
At least three blasts have been heard in Dubai, the global commercial hub of the UAE, according to a Reuters report. The air defences were also reportedly seen in action over Dubai as Iran launched retaliatory strikes on US military bases across the Middle East. Meanwhile, Dubai airport has been closed indefinitely.

Death toll in Iran school building strike rises to 51: Reports

At least 51 people were killed, and several others were injured after an Israeli-US strike hit a primary school building in Iran. According to local media reports, the building was struck at around 11:30 am local time. Most of the deceased are small school girls.

Dramatic video shows missile debris crashing near Doha apartments in Qatar

A dramatic video has surfaced online showing missile debris falling from the sky and exploding near Doha, Qatar. The video was recorded by an Asian man, most probably from Pakistan. It shows people running in panic as debris fell on the round, followed by a loud explosion.

https://twitter.com/mahobili/status/2027700554563260591

Dramatic video shows missile debris crashing near Doha apartments in Qatar

A dramatic video has surfaced online showing missile debris falling from the sky and exploding near Doha, Qatar. The video was recorded by an Asian man, most probably from Pakistan. It shows people running in panic as debris fell on the round, followed by a loud explosion.

https://x.com/mahobili/status/2027700554563260591

Dramatic video shows missile debris crashing near Doha apartments in Qatar

A dramatic video has surfaced online showing missile debris falling from the sky and exploding near Doha, Qatar. The video was recorded by an Asian man, most probably from Pakistan. It shows people running in panic as debris fell on the round, followed by a loud explosion.


https://x.com/mahobili/status/2027700554563260591

Dramatic video shows missile debris crashing near Doha apartments in Qatar

A dramatic video has surfaced online showing missile debris falling from the sky and exploding near Doha, Qatar. The video was recorded by an Asian man, most probably from Pakistan. It shows people running in panic as debris fell on the round, followed by a loud explosion.

https://x.com/mahobili/status/2027700554563260591

Dramatic video shows missile debris crashing near Doha apartments in Qatar

A dramatic video has surfaced online showing missile debris falling from the sky and exploding near Doha, Qatar. The video was recorded by an Asian man, most probably from Pakistan. It shows people running in panic as debris fell on the round, followed by a loud explosion.

https://twitter.com/mahobili/status/2027700554563260591

At least three blasts heard in Dubai
At least three blasts have been heard in Dubai, the global commercial hub of the UAE, according to a Reuters report. The air defences were also reportedly seen in action over Dubai as Iran launched retaliatory strikes on US military bases across the Middle East. Meanwhile, Dubai airport has been closed indefinitely.

US-Israeli strikes 'unprovoked, illegal, and illegitimate,' says Araghchi

"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," the Iranian minister said.

US-Israeli strikes hit primary school in Iran, says FM Araghachi

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has shared an image of a compound destroyed by the US-Israeli air strikes. Araghchi said that the building housed a primary school for girls and dozens of children were killed in the US-Israeli attack.

"The destroyed building is a primary school for girls in the south of Iran. It was bombed in broad daylight, when packed with young pupils. Dozens of innocent children have been murdered at this site alone. These crimes against the Iranian People will not go unanswered," he said.


https://twitter.com/araghchi/status/2027732295629873332

US-Israeli strikes hit primary school in Iran, says FM Araghachi

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has shared an image of a compound destroyed by the US-Israeli air strikes. Araghchi said that the building housed a primary school for girls and dozens of children were killed in the US-Israeli attack.

"The destroyed building is a primary school for girls in the south of Iran. It was bombed in broad daylight, when packed with young pupils. Dozens of innocent children have been murdered at this site alone. These crimes against the Iranian People will not go unanswered," he said.


https://twitter.com/araghchi/status/2027732295629873332

US-Israeli strikes were large-scale, targeted key leadership and military sites

The scale of the US-Israeli strikes against Iran is much larger than what was being anticipated earlier. According to the Israel Defence Forces, the office of Iran’s Supreme Leader and the presidential office in Tehran were targeted.

Several military targets in Kermanshah, Qum, Isfahan, Tabriz, Karaj and as well as at Iranian naval facilities in Kenarak were also hit.

US-Israeli strikes were large-scale, targeted key leadership and military sites

The scale of the US-Israeli strikes against Iran is much larger than what was being anticipated earlier. According to the Israel Defence Forces, the office of Iran’s Supreme Leader and the presidential office in Tehran were targeted.

Several military targets in Kermanshah, Qum, Isfahan, Tabriz, Karaj and as well as at Iranian naval facilities in Kenarak were also hit.

US-Israeli strikes targeted Iranian Supreme Leader, say reports

The US and Israeli strikes reportedly targeted the top Iranian leadership, including the country's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khemnei. According to Israeli media reports, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian was also among those targeted in the strike.

However, the Iranian media, citing government officials, have stated that its senior leaders are in "perfect health". "While Israeli sources have claimed to have targeted and succeeded in attacking the president and senior Iranian leaders, official sources within the country report that senior regime officials, including the heads of the armed forces, are in perfect health,” Iran's Fars news agency said.

US-Israeli strikes targeted Iranian Supreme Leader, say reports

The US and Israeli strikes reportedly targeted the top Iranian leadership, including the country's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khemnei. According to Israeli media reports, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian was also among those targeted in the strike.

However, the Iranian media, citing government officials, have stated that its senior leaders are in "perfect health". "While Israeli sources have claimed to have targeted and succeeded in attacking the president and senior Iranian leaders, official sources within the country report that senior regime officials, including the heads of the armed forces, are in perfect health,” Iran's Fars news agency said.

Iran launches ‘Operation True Promise-4’ against US-Israel's Operation Roaring Lion


"The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) says it has struck several US military bases in the region, including the American Navy’s Fifth Fleet in Bahrain. In its second statement, following the launch of missile and drone strikes, in response to the US-Israeli aggression against Iranian soil, the IRGC said it severely targeted the American bases in Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, as well as military hideouts in the heart of the occupied Palestinian lands. The statement continued by saying that the IRGC launched the operation “True Promise-4” against “the criminal US army and the child-killing Zionist regime”, with comprehensive attacks on the regional targets of the aggressive enemy. The IRGC pledged the missile and drone attacks by Iran’s armed forces will continue," reports IRNA.

Iran launches ‘Operation True Promise-4’ against US-Israel's Operation Roaring Lion


"The Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) says it has struck several US military bases in the region, including the American Navy’s Fifth Fleet in Bahrain. In its second statement, following the launch of missile and drone strikes, in response to the US-Israeli aggression against Iranian soil, the IRGC said it severely targeted the American bases in Bahrain, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, as well as military hideouts in the heart of the occupied Palestinian lands. The statement continued by saying that the IRGC launched the operation “True Promise-4” against “the criminal US army and the child-killing Zionist regime”, with comprehensive attacks on the regional targets of the aggressive enemy. The IRGC pledged the missile and drone attacks by Iran’s armed forces will continue," reports IRNA.

More airlines cancel flights in the Middle East

Air France says it is cancelling flights to and from Tel Aviv on February 28 and March 1 due to security concerns. The airline has also cancelled flights to and from Beirut, Lebanon; Dubai, United Arab Emirates; and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Rahul Gandhi urges govt to ensure safety and security of Indians across the Middle East


Expressing deep concerns over the rapidly escalating hostilities between the US and Israel, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, has urged the Narendra Modi-led central government to ensure the safety and security of Indians across the Middle East.

“The rapidly escalating hostilities between US-Israel and Iran are deeply concerning. The safety and security of every Indian citizen across the Middle East must be our highest priority. I urge the Government of India to take immediate and proactive measures to safeguard our people,” Gandhi said on X.

Iran says US, Israeli strikes hit girls' primary school, killing 24 students

Iran has said that the US and Israeli strike hit a school building in Hormozgan province. The death toll from the Israel-US strike on a girls’ primary school has risen to 24, with 60 injured, reports Iranian broadcaster IRIB.

Watch: Israeli defence systems intercept Iranian missile

https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2027698643046961173

Iran will show no hesitation, says Senior Armed Forces Spokesman

“As we have already stated, any base anywhere in the region that assists Israel will be a target of the sacred Islamic Republic and our armed forces, and we will show no hesitation,” Senior Armed Forces Spokesman Brigadier General Abolfazl Shekarchi said.

British Airways cancels flights to Tel ⁠Aviv and Bahrain until March 3

“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.”

EU Commission President says developments in Iran 'greatly concerning'

"The developments in Iran are greatly concerning. We remain in close contact with our partners in the region. We reaffirm our steadfast commitment to safeguarding regional security and stability. Ensuring nuclear safety and preventing any actions that could further escalate tensions or undermine the global non-proliferation regime is of critical importance. The European Union has adopted extensive sanctions in response to the actions of Iran’s murderous regime and the Revolutionary Guards and has consistently promoted diplomatic efforts aimed at addressing the nuclear and ballistic programmes through a negotiated solution. In close coordination with EU Member States, we will take all necessary steps to ensure that EU citizens in the region can count on our full support. We call on all parties to exercise maximum restraint, to protect civilians, and to fully respect international law," she said on X.

Why did Iran target the US Navy’s 5th Fleet command in Bahrain?



The U.S. Navy’s 5th Fleet command, which host nation Bahrain said was targeted by a missile attack, is responsible for securing the shipping lanes around the oil-rich Middle East.

Those waters include the Persian Gulf, the Red Sea, and parts of the Indian Ocean. The region contains three key chokepoints: the Suez Canal and the Bab al-Mandeb on either end of the Red Sea, and the Strait of Hormuz between Iran and Oman.

Qatar says Iranian attack was aborted

Qatar’s Interior Ministry said the missile attack on the country that was aborted did not cause any human losses or material damage. The ministry called on citizens and foreigners to stay away from suspicious objects and to report them to the authorities.

Iran targets American bases in the Middle East

Iran has launched missile attacks on the US Navy’s 5th Fleet headquarters in Bahrain, marking a major escalation in tensions in the Middle East. A loud explosion was also heard in Abu Dhabi.

Qatar’s Al-Udeid Air Base, the largest US military base in the Middle East, was also targeted by Iran. Loud sirens were heard as Qatari air defence systems intercepted Iranian missiles. Qatar reportedly deployed US-made Patriot interceptor systems to intercept the Iranian missiles. READ MORE HERE

https://twitter.com/anadoluagency/status/2027688527278838094

Iran targets American bases in the Middle East

Iran has launched missile attacks on the US Navy’s 5th Fleet headquarters in Bahrain, marking a major escalation in tensions in the Middle East. A loud explosion was also heard in Abu Dhabi.

Qatar’s Al-Udeid Air Base, the largest US military base in the Middle East, was also targeted by Iran. Loud sirens were heard as Qatari air defence systems intercepted Iranian missiles. Qatar reportedly deployed US-made Patriot interceptor systems to intercept the Iranian missiles. READ MORE HERE

https://twitter.com/anadoluagency/status/2027688527278838094

Iran targets American bases in the Middle East

Iran has launched missile attacks on the US Navy’s 5th Fleet headquarters in Bahrain, marking a major escalation in tensions in the Middle East. A loud explosion was also heard in Abu Dhabi.

Qatar’s Al-Udeid Air Base, the largest US military base in the Middle East, was also targeted by Iran. Loud sirens were heard as Qatari air defence systems intercepted Iranian missiles. Qatar reportedly deployed US-made Patriot interceptor systems to intercept the Iranian missiles. READ MORE HERE

Iran targets American bases in the Middle East

Iran has launched missile attacks on the US Navy’s 5th Fleet headquarters in Bahrain, marking a major escalation in tensions in the Middle East. A loud explosion was also heard in Abu Dhabi.

Qatar’s Al-Udeid Air Base, the largest US military base in the Middle East, was also targeted by Iran. Loud sirens were heard as Qatari air defence systems intercepted Iranian missiles. Qatar reportedly deployed US-made Patriot interceptor systems to intercept the Iranian missiles. READ MORE HERE

https://twitter.com/anadoluagency/status/2027688527278838094

Statement of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps of Iran Regarding the Brutal Aggression: "In response to the aggression of the hostile and criminal enemy against the Islamic Republic of Iran, the first wave of extensive missile and drone strikes by the Islamic Republic of Iran toward the occupied territories has commenced.
Further details will be announced in due course."

Iran vows to punish its 'aggressors'

Following the joint military strikes by the US and Israel, Iran vowed a “crushing response” against their targets. In a statement, Iran’s Foreign Affairs Ministry said it would make its aggressors “regret their actions”, adding that the country is “fully prepared to defend” itself.

“The renewed military aggression by the United States and the Zionist regime against Iran constitutes a violation of international law and the principles of the United Nations Charter…The Islamic Republic of Iran considers this aggression a clear breach of international peace and security and emphasises that it reserves its legitimate right to respond decisively,” the ministry said.

It further added, “The Iranian nation has always demonstrated patience and restraint to prevent escalation and preserve regional stability.”

Iran launches additional barrage of missiles towards Israel, says IDF

In retaliation to the Israeli and the US air strikes, the Iranian forces have launched an additional barrage of missiles towards Israel, the IDF said. The Israeli Air Force is currently operating to "intercept and strike threats," it added.

Netanyahu indicates ultimate aim is 'regime change' in Iran

"For 47 years, the Ayatollahs' regime has chanted "Death to Israel," "Death to America." It has spilled our blood, murdered many Americans, and massacred its own people. This murderous terrorist regime must not be allowed to arm itself with nuclear weapons that would enable it to threaten all of humanity. Our joint operation will create the conditions for the brave Iranian people to take their fate into their own hands," he said.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says Operation launched to 'remove existential threat posed Iranian terrorist regime'

"Israel and the United States have launched an operation to remove the existential threat posed by the terrorist regime in Iran. The operation will create conditions for the Iranian people to take destiny into their own hands. Iran must not be allowed to arm itself with nuclear weapons," says Netanyahu.

Iran vows 'crushing response' against Israeli and US strikes

Following the Israeli and the US joint military strikes, Iranian officials has vowed a "crushing response" against their targets, according to Tasnim News Agency. Israeli Defence Forces have said that they have identified missiles launched from Iran toward Israel.

Iran vows 'crushing response' against Israeli and US strikes

Following the Israeli and the US joint military strikes, Iranian officials has vowed a "crushing response" against their targets, according to Tasnim News Agency. Israeli Defence Forces have said that they have detected Iranian missile heading towards Israel.

Iran vows 'crushing response' against Israeli and US strikes

Following the Israeli and the US joint military strikes, Iranian officials has vowed a "crushing response" against their targets, according to Tasnim News Agency. Israeli Defence Forces have said that they have identified missiles launched from Iran toward Israel.

https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2027646792108806224

Indian Embassy in Jordan issues advisory for its citizens

"In view of the prevailing regional situation, all Indian nationals and tourists in Jordan are advised to exercise utmost caution, stay safe and follow advisories issued by local authorities diligently. All Indian tourists in Jordan are further advised to leave the country immediately before the operations of commercial flights get disrupted. In case of any exigency, one may contact the Embassy at 00962-770 422 276," says Embassy of India in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.

Iran retaliates, launches missiles towards Israel


The Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) says, "Sirens were sounded in several areas across the country following the identification of missiles launched from Iran toward Israel. At this time, the IAF is operating to intercept and strike threats where necessary to remove the threat."

Lay down their weapons or face certain death: Trump warns Iranian forces


US President Donald Trump has issued a video statement. Trump announced that the US began “major combat operations in Iran”.


“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.

The US President has also warned Iranian forces to lay down their weapons or face certain death.

"To the members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard, the armed forces, and all of the police, I say tonight that you must lay down your weapons and have complete immunity, or, in the alternative, face certain death. So, lay down your arms, you will be treated fairly with total immunity, or you will face certain death," he saud.

In his message for the people of Iran, the US President 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."


https://twitter.com/ANI/status/2027654014427684965

Explosions heard in Tehran

Iranian local media reports say explosions have been heard in Tehran. Several missiles have reportedly hit the Republic area of downtown Tehran. Both Israel and Iran have closed their airspaces.

Israel declares 'permanent state of emergency'


Announcing the "pre-emptive strikes" against Iran, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz declared a "special and permanent state of emergency" across Israel.

IDF sounds alert in Israel, asks people to stay near protected spaces

In the last few minutes, sirens were sounded all throughout Israel, with an advance instruction alert directly to cellular devices to stay within proximity to protected spaces. This is a proactive alert to prepare the public for the possibility of missiles being launched toward the State of Israel. The IDF emphasizes that the public is requested to stay in proximity to protected spaces.

Israel has launched 'Operation Lion's Roar' against Iran. In a joint military operation with the United States, Israeli Defence Forces have struck several targets in Iran. Follow this LIVE blog for all the latest updates on Israel and the US attack on Iran.