U.S. and Israel Launch Joint Strikes on Iran; Tehran Responds with Retaliatory Attacks

The United States and Israel carried out coordinated military strikes on Iran early Saturday, significantly escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Explosions were reported in Tehran and several other Iranian cities as the joint operation targeted what U.S. and Israeli officials described as strategic military infrastructure, missile facilities, and key command positions.

U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the strikes were aimed at neutralizing immediate threats linked to Iran’s missile and nuclear programs, while Israeli leaders said the action was necessary to protect national security and counter Tehran’s growing regional influence.

Within hours, Iran launched retaliatory ballistic missiles and drones toward Israel and U.S. military bases across the Gulf region, triggering air raid sirens and missile interception systems.

Several countries in the region raised military alerts, and commercial flights were diverted or canceled as airspace closures spread. Iranian state media reported casualties and damage in civilian areas, while Israeli authorities confirmed defensive operations against incoming projectiles, though full casualty details remain unclear.

International reactions were swift, with calls for restraint and urgent diplomatic engagement to prevent further escalation. Analysts warn that the situation remains volatile and could widen into a broader regional conflict if de-escalation efforts fail.