US President Donald Trump has confirmed that the United States has launched what he described as “major combat operations” inside Iran, marking a dramatic escalation in tensions across the Middle East.
The announcement came shortly after Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz declared that Israel had initiated a “pre-emptive” military strike against Iranian targets. Katz said the action was taken in response to what he called imminent security threats.
Images received by the BBC show plumes of smoke rising over Tehran, as Iranian state media reported multiple explosions in the eastern and northern districts of the capital. The full extent of the damage and potential casualties remains unclear.
In anticipation of retaliation, Katz announced a nationwide state of emergency in Israel. Air-raid sirens sounded across the country at approximately 08:15 local time (06:15 GMT), warning residents of a possible incoming missile attack, according to reports from Jerusalem.
The rapidly unfolding situation has heightened fears of a wider regional conflict. While Washington has not disclosed operational details, President Trump said US forces were acting to defend strategic interests and regional stability.
International media access to developments inside Iran remains limited. Foreign news organisations, including the BBC, are frequently denied visas by Iranian authorities, restricting independent verification of events on the ground.
Diplomatic channels are reportedly active as global powers call for restraint, but with both Washington and Tel Aviv signalling firm resolve, the crisis appears poised to enter a dangerous new phase.
