The United States and Israel have launched coordinated military strikes on Iran, with US President Donald Trump confirming that “major combat operations” are now underway.
In an eight-minute video posted on his social media platform Truth Social, President Trump confirmed direct US involvement in the attack. While full details of his remarks are still being assessed, Trump stated that large-scale military operations had been initiated against Iran.
Israeli Minister Israel Katz described the assault as a “pre-emptive strike” targeting Tehran, signaling a dramatic escalation in tensions between Israel and Iran.
Explosions Rock Multiple Iranian Cities
Iranian state media reported explosions in at least five major cities, including:
-
Isfahan
-
Qom
-
Karaj
-
Kermanshah
-
The capital, Tehran
The Fars news agency reported that several missiles struck University Street and the Republic area in central Tehran. The Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) also confirmed explosions at two separate locations in the capital, adding that smoke was visible rising from the city centre.
Witness accounts cited by Iranian outlets described multiple loud blasts across different regions, indicating widespread strikes.
Cyber Attacks Target Iranian Media
Alongside the military escalation, several Iranian state-linked news agencies and online platforms were reportedly hit by cyber attacks.
According to the Telegram channel of the hard-line daily Hamshahri, a “widespread wave” of cyber operations began simultaneously with the airstrikes. Multiple major domestic media platforms experienced operational disruptions and technical difficulties.
The cyber dimension of the conflict suggests a coordinated hybrid offensive combining military and digital warfare.
Missile Strike Reported on US Naval Facility in Bahrain
In a further escalation, Bahrain’s National Communication Centre said the service centre of the US Navy’s 5th Fleet had been subjected to a missile attack.
The statement, quoted by the state-run Bahrain News Agency (BNA), did not immediately provide details on casualties or damage.
The US Navy’s Fifth Fleet, based in Bahrain, plays a critical role in American naval operations in the Middle East.
Rising Nuclear Tensions
The military action comes amid mounting pressure from Washington on Tehran over its nuclear programme. President Trump recently expressed dissatisfaction with Iran’s position in ongoing nuclear negotiations.
Speaking on Friday before the strikes, Trump said he was “not happy” with Iran’s negotiating stance, signaling growing frustration in Washington.
The strikes mark one of the most significant escalations between the US, Israel, and Iran in recent years, raising fears of a broader regional conflict.
Further details are expected as officials in Washington, Tehran, and Tel Aviv release additional statements.
