The United States and Israel launched coordinated airstrikes on Iran on Saturday, targeting military and government sites in Tehran and nearby areas. Officials said the strikes aimed to prevent Iran from advancing nuclear and missile capabilities that could threaten Israel and US interests. Explosions were reported in Tehran, and Iranian authorities confirmed at least some of the attacks.
In retaliation, Iran fired missiles toward Israel and across the Gulf region, including US military bases in Qatar, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Bahrain, and Kuwait. Local air defense systems intercepted several incoming missiles, but the attacks caused panic and emergency alerts across affected areas.
Gulf countries reacted quickly to the escalation. Qatar, UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Iraq suspended flights to ensure safety as commercial airspace became a potential target. Military bases and critical infrastructure across the Gulf were put on high alert, with authorities closely monitoring missile activity. Diplomatically, GCC nations called for restraint, warning against actions that could escalate the conflict, while Saudi Arabia condemned Iran’s attacks on neighboring states.
In Israel, a nationwide state of emergency was declared. Schools were closed, public gatherings banned, and civilians were advised to shelter underground. US citizens in Israel were urged to remain close to safe zones and follow local authorities’ instructions.
International reactions have been mixed. Russia criticized the US‑Israel strikes as “unprovoked aggression,” warning of humanitarian and regional consequences. Meanwhile, Washington emphasized that its actions alongside Israel were defensive and aimed at preventing a wider conflict.
The situation remains tense and fluid, with casualties and full damage reports still unclear. The involvement of US forces, the expansion of missile exchanges into the Gulf, and the activation of GCC defenses have raised concerns about a broader regional escalation.
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