The United States and Israel have carried out coordinated military strikes on Iran, triggering explosions in Tehran and other major cities and raising fears of a wider conflict in the region. The attacks follow weeks of rising tension and stalled talks over Iran’s nuclear programme, with both Washington and Tel Aviv saying the operation is aimed at stopping what they describe as an imminent threat.
Shortly after 09:30 local time in Tehran, Iranian media reported blasts in the capital. Images showed thick smoke rising above Jomhouri Square and Hassan Abad Square. Explosions were also reported in several other cities, including Isfahan, Qom, Karaj and Kermanshah. There was no immediate confirmation on casualties or damage.
Iran’s airspace was shut following the strikes, according to Tasnim News Agency, as authorities moved to secure the country’s skies.
In Israel, warning sirens sounded across the country at about 08:15 local time, cautioning residents about the possibility of a retaliatory missile attack from Iran. The government urged people to avoid public gatherings and to stay away from school and work unless it was necessary. The advisory is set to remain in force until Monday at 20:00. Israeli media also reported that the country’s airspace had been closed to civilian flights.
U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed Washington’s role in the operation in a video message posted on Truth Social.
"A short time ago, the United States military began major combat operations in Iran," he said.
"Our objective is to defend the American people by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime," he said, adding that Washington's aim is to "ensure that Iran does not obtain a nuclear weapon".
He also told the Iranian people to remain in shelter and not leave their homes.
"When we are finished, take over your government," he said. "It will be yours to take. This will be probably your only chance for generations."
Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu echoed the call, urging Iranians to rise against their leadership.
"to throw off the yoke of tyranny and bring about a free and peaceful Iran".
Thanking Trump, he reiterated his message that Iran "must not be armed with nuclear weapons that would allow it to threaten all of humanity".
"Our joint action will create the conditions for the courageous Iranian people to take their destiny into their own hands."
Earlier, Israel’s defence minister announced a "special and permanent state of emergency" across the country, citing the risk of further escalation.
The joint operation marks a sharp turn in the long-running standoff over Iran’s nuclear ambitions, with both the United States and Israel framing the strikes as necessary to prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons. Iranian authorities have yet to give a full account of the impact of the attacks as the situation continues to unfold.
