Iran's supreme leader Khamenei killed, Iranian state media confirm; retaliations and reactions of Day 1 of the escalation between Israel-US, Iran | LIVE

Iran's supreme leader Khamenei killed, Iranian state media confirm

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has been killed in Israeli and US strikes, Iranian state media said on Sunday.

Dubai authorities says drone debris causes fire at Burj Al Arab Hotel

Dubai authorities say drone debris caused "limited fire" at Burj Al Arab Hotel exterior of Dubai’s iconic Burj Al-Arab hotel after drone interception.

Israeli emergency services report death of a woman in the Tel Aviv area

A woman in her forties was killed in the Tel Aviv area following Iranian missile strikes on Israel in retaliation for the U.S.-Israeli attack on Iran, Israeli emergency services said.

Teams from Magen David Adom, Israel’s equivalent of the Red Cross, “confirmed the death of a woman of approximately 40 years old, who had sustained severe injuries across her body,” the organization said in a statement.

Iranians take to the streets in Tehran to celebrate Trump’s announcement of Khamenei’s death.

Iranians from several neighborhoods in Tehran took to the streets to celebrate the announcement by Donald Trump of the death of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei in U.S.-Israeli strikes, according to residents speaking to Reuters.

Son of Iran's late shah says Islamic republic enters 'dustbin of history'

The son of Iran's late shah on Saturday hailed the reported killing of supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, saying the Islamic republic that replaced his pro-Western father was finished.

"With his death, the Islamic Republic has effectively come to an end and will soon be consigned to the dustbin of history," Reza Pahlavi wrote on X.

He warned against appointing a successor and called on security forces to join in a transition.

'Limited material damage' from intercepted missile debris over the United Arab Emirates

The UAE Ministry of Defense reported that debris fell in various areas of the country, causing limited material damage. Earlier, widely circulated videos showed damage and smoke at Dubai Airport.

According to the Emirate’s press office, four people were injured in an “incident” of unconfirmed nature at the airport.

The Ministry of Defense also stated that it destroyed 132 launched missiles and intercepted 195 drones coming from Iran during the day.

Iranian missile strikes on Israel: at least 21 people were injured in the Tel Aviv area, according to emergency services.

According to Israel’s Magen David Adom emergency service, rocket shrapnel from Iranian missiles fired in the latest barrage wounded people in the Tel Aviv region.

Revolutionary Guards Strike al-Harir Base in Iraq and Prince Sultan Base in Saudi Arabia

The Revolutionary Guards struck al-Harir Air Base in Iraq and targeted Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia with missiles and drones, according to Iranian state media.

CMA CGM tells all ships in the Gulf to 'seek shelter' and suspends transit through the Suez Canal

The French shipping company CMA CGM has instructed all its vessels in the Gulf to “seek shelter,” while transit through the Suez Canal “is suspended.”

“All vessels currently in the Persian Gulf, or en route to the Persian Gulf, have been instructed, with immediate effect, to seek shelter,” the shipping company said in a statement. “Transit through the Suez Canal is suspended until further notice, and ships will be rerouted via the Cape of Good Hope” in southern Africa, it added.

Iran's supreme leader Khamenei confirmed dead: Trump

U.S. President Donald Trump said Saturday that Iranian supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has been killed in air strikes, though there has been no confirmation from Tehran.

"Khameini, one of the most evil people in History, is dead," Trump said on his Truth Social network.

Risk of triggering an 'uncontrollable chain of events,' warns Guterres

The U.N. Secretary-General expressed concern about the potential for an “uncontrollable chain of events in the world’s most volatile region” in the Middle East.

“Military action carries the risk of triggering a series of events that no one can control in the world’s most volatile region,” Antonio Guterres said before the Security Council, condemning both the U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran and the Iranian strikes in the region.

“Military action is rapidly spreading across the region, creating an increasingly volatile and unpredictable situation, and raising the risk of miscalculations,” he added, reiterating his call for an “immediate” cease-fire.

Iranian missile strikes: 'Multiple impact points' in Israel

The Israeli military stated that the Iranian missiles fired in the latest barrage had “multiple impact points” in Israel.

Rubio is set to speak with G7 leaders about the situation in Iran.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will inform his G7 counterparts about the American and Israeli attack on Iran, a U.S. official said.

“Today, Secretary Rubio will speak by phone with the leaders of the G7 to discuss the situation in Iran,” the State Department official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Kata'ib Hezbollah calls on Pro-Iran groups in the region, including Hezbollah, to 'settle scores' with the US and Israel

The “Islamic Resistance in Iraq” claimed to have carried out 16 operations using dozens of drones against U.S. airbases in Iraq and the region. Meanwhile, Kata'ib Hezbollah, a major pro-Iranian Iraqi militia whose bases were attacked during the day, issued a statement calling to draw the United States and Israel into a “long war of attrition” to prevent “any American presence in the region.”

In this context, Kata’ib Hezbollah called on Iran’s allies in Palestine, Lebanon, and Syria to “settle their scores” with the U.S. and Israel.

Trump tells NBC 'we feel' reports of Khamenei death are 'correct'

U.S. President Donald Trump said Saturday that he believes multiple reports that Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has been killed in air strikes are true – but stopped short of directly confirming the news.

"We feel that that is a correct story," he was quoted as saying by NBC News.

Iran says it has launched a new wave of attacks on Israel

Iran claims to have launched a new wave of attacks targeting Israeli bases and the Ministry of Defense.

Blasts heard in central Israel, Jerusalem and Ramallah: AFP journalists

AFP journalists heard a series of blasts in Jerusalem, central Israel and Ramallah, in the occupied West Bank, on Saturday night, with a journalist in Tel Aviv reporting a large explosion.

The blasts followed sirens, after the military said it had identified a new round of missiles launched from Iran.

'Khamenei is directing the situation on the ground,' says source close to his office

A source close to Khamenei’s office, cited by Iranian state media, said they could “confidently affirm that the Supreme Leader is firmly directing the situation on the ground,” according to Reuters.

Iranian strikes on Qatar: Eight injured, one in critical condition

Eight people were injured, including one critically, in Iranian strikes on Qatar, according to a diplomat cited by AFP.

Ali Shamkhani, Khamenei’s adviser, 'eliminated,' says Israeli military

Ali Shamkhani, an adviser to Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, has been “eliminated,” the Israeli military announced.

Trump says he has 'a very good idea' who will be Iran’s next leader

U.S. President Donald Trump told ABC News that he has “a very good idea” who will be the next Iranian leader, shortly after Israeli reports claimed that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, had been killed in U.S.-Israeli bombings on Tehran.

Cheers heard on Tehran streets after reports of Khamenei death: witnesses

Witnesses said on Saturday that loud cheers echoed across parts of Tehran and residents took to their windows to applaud and play celebratory music after reports of Iranian supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's death.

The celebrations began shortly after 11 pm (1930 GMT), according to multiple witnesses and audio recordings.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had earlier announced that there were “many signs” that Iran’s Supreme Leader had been killed in the strikes carried out since the morning by Israel and the United States.

US accuses Iran of 'games and tricks' in nuclear talks

The United States offered Iran many ways to have a civil nuclear program but that was met with "games and tricks," a senior Trump administration official said on Saturday.

The official, who declined to be identified, added that Tehran's lack of seriousness in the nuclear talks left President Donald Trump with no choice but to attack.

"It was very clear that the intent for them was to preserve their ability to do enrichment so that over time, they could use it for nuclear bomb," a senior Trump administration official told reporters.

Iran vows 'unforgettable lesson' for Israel and the United States

Ali Larijani, head of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, said that Tehran would deliver an “unforgettable lesson” to the United States and Israel following their strikes on Iran. “We will make the shameless Americans and the Zionist criminals regret their actions,” Larijani wrote on X.

Iran “will give an unforgettable lesson to the international oppressors,” he added.

Khamenei’s office warns of 'mental warfare' after Israeli reports of Khamenei's death

The head of public relations at the Iranian Supreme Leader's office on Saturday accused the country's enemies of "mental warfare" after Israeli reports Ayatollah Ali Khamenei had been killed, Iranian state media reported.

"The enemy is resorting to mental warfare, all should be aware," the public relations official was quoted as saying.

A senior Israeli official told Reuters on Saturday that Khamenei was killed in Israeli and U.S. strikes.

Sites targeted by Israeli-American strikes

Netanyahu says thousands of targets in Iran will be struck in the coming days.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that “thousands of targets in Iran will be struck in the coming days.”

The United States on Saturday urged its citizens around the world to excercise increased vigilance over potential impacts from the joint U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran.

"Following the launch of U.S. combat operations in Iran, Americans worldwide and especially in the Middle East should follow the guidance in the latest security alerts issued by the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate," the State Department wrote on X.

It additionally advised "Americans worldwide to exercise increased caution."

Khamenei killed, according to senior Israeli official to Reuters

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei was killed in U.S.-Israeli strikes, a senior Israeli official told Reuters. The official said that the body of Ayatollah Khamenei “has been found.”

EU Foreign Ministers to meet Sunday on Iran situation

The foreign ministers of European Union member states will meet Sunday via videoconference “to discuss the situation in Iran and the rapidly evolving events in the Middle East,” EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas announced.

“The indiscriminate attacks by the Iranian regime against its neighbors risk dragging the region into a wider war, and we condemn them,” Kallas wrote on X.

Trump spoke with leaders of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, and NATO

Donald Trump spoke with the leaders of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, as well as NATO chief Mark Rutte, his spokesperson Karoline Leavitt announced in a message on X. The U.S. president is overseeing the military operation launched by the United States against Iran from his luxury Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida.

Israel announces closure of Gaza-Egypt border for 'security' reasons

Israel announced on Saturday that it had closed the Rafah border crossing between the Gaza Strip and Egypt for “security” reasons, following the start of the U.S.-Israeli attack on Iran and subsequent Iranian retaliations.

“Several security measures have been implemented, including the closure of crossings with the Gaza Strip, including Rafah,” the COGAT, the Israeli Defense Ministry body responsible for Palestinian civilian affairs, said on X, adding that “humanitarian staff rotations are currently suspended.”

The Rafah crossing, the only exit point for the besieged Palestinian territory —occupied on the Palestinian side by the Israeli military since May 2024 — had partially reopened on Feb. 2.

Netanyahu to Israelis: 'There are signs' that Khamenei is dead

Benjamin Netanyahu also stated that there are “signs” that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, is dead.

Netanyahu: US-Israeli attack on Iran will last 'as long as necessary'

Speaking to the press, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the U.S.-Israeli attack on Iran will continue “as long as necessary.” He stated that strikes carried out since this morning have “destroyed Khamenei’s residential complex and killed commanders of the Revolutionary Guards and senior officials of Iran’s nuclear program.”

Erdogan ‘deeply troubled’ by US-Israeli strikes on Iran and Iranian attacks in the Gulf

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said he was “deeply troubled” by the U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran, while also condemning Tehran’s retaliatory strikes in the Gulf and calling for measures to end the conflict.

“We are deeply troubled by the attacks by the United States and Israel against Iran, our neighbor,” Erdogan said in a televised address, adding that Iran’s strikes against Gulf countries are “unacceptable, whatever the reason.”

“To prevent further suffering in our region, all actors, especially the Islamic world, must take action,” he added. Turkey has “long worked hard to resolve conflicts at the negotiating table … but the lack of trust between parties could not be overcome,” he said, promising to “accelerate Turkey’s diplomatic efforts” to get the warring parties back to talks.

Iraq: Protest against strikes in Iran near US embassy in Baghdad

Several hundred people demonstrated near the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad against the U.S.-Israeli strikes in Iran, AFP journalists reported.

The protesters gathered near Baghdad’s Green Zone, where the U.S. Embassy is located. Some attempted to breach the security cordon to enter the area but were stopped. They waved Iranian, Iraqi, and pro-Iranian militia flags, chanting slogans including “Death to Israel,” “Death to America,” and “For you, Khamenei,” in reference to Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

30 bombs dropped on Khamenei’s residential complex, according to Israeli television.

“Thirty bombs” were dropped on the residential complex of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, according to Israeli television. The complex is located in Tehran’s Pasteur district. The fate of the Supreme Leader was not immediately clear.

Iran retaliation: 'Minimal' damage to US Sites, says Pentagon

The U.S. military reported no combat casualties following Iran’s retaliation for the U.S.-Israeli strikes, the U.S. Central Command said on Saturday.

“Damage to U.S. facilities was minimal and did not affect operations,” the Central Command added.

The United States targeted command and control centers of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, as well as Iranian missile and drone launch sites, the U.S. military said on Saturday.

The Pentagon confirmed that there were no U.S. casualties in the Iranian response.

Von der Leyen condemns Iran’s ‘unjustifiable’ attacks on the UAE

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on Saturday condemned Iran’s “unjustifiable” attacks on the United Arab Emirates, following Tehran’s missile strikes in retaliation for U.S. and Israeli attacks.

“I expressed our full support and offered condolences following the Iranian strikes and the resulting victims,” she said in a phone call with UAE President Mohamed bin Zayed.

“Europe strongly condemns these unjustifiable attacks. They constitute a blatant violation of the sovereignty of the United Arab Emirates and a flagrant breach of international law,” von der Leyen wrote on X.

Pro-government supporters rally on Tehran’s Valiasr Avenue

Several dozen people rode motorcycles through Tehran on Saturday evening to the sound of martial music, waving flags of the Islamic Republic, AFP journalists reported.

The procession, which included around fifty participants, traveled north along the long Valiasr Avenue, which was largely deserted following Israeli and U.S. strikes on the capital earlier in the day.

Israel announces imminent strikes on an industrial area in Isfahan, urges residents to evacuate.

Kuwait says 3 military personnel were injured in the attack on Ali al-Salem Air Base

Three Kuwaiti soldiers were injured by shrapnel after a base – which houses U.S. personnel among others – was targeted earlier on Saturday, a spokesperson for the Kuwaiti Ministry of Defense said.

“Shrapnel fell on Ali al-Salem Air Base after the air defense forces intercepted ballistic missiles and drones, causing minor injuries to three armed forces members and some material damage,” Colonel Saoud Abdelaziz al-Atwan said.

Netanyahu to make a statement to the press on Saturday evening, his office announced

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to make a statement to the press on Saturday evening, his office announced.

The Prime Minister’s office did not specify a time for the statement, saying only that “further details will be provided later.”

Iranian Red Crescent reports at least 201 dead, 747 injured in U.S.-Israeli strikes

The Iranian Red Crescent said Saturday evening that it had recorded at least 201 deaths and 747 injuries from a series of Israeli and U.S. strikes on Iran.

Out of the country’s 31 provinces, “24 have been affected and the Red Crescent is on high alert,” the organization said in a statement published by the ISNA news agency. This marks the first official toll for the strikes carried out Saturday morning.

Macron 'Diplomacy must take back its place'

French President Emmanuel Macron said on Saturday that “diplomatic work” must “take back its place,” just hours after the start of the Israeli-American offensive in Iran, stressing that the crisis over Iran’s nuclear program cannot be resolved through “strikes.”

“I hope we can take all useful initiatives so that diplomatic work takes back its place,” he said at the start of a defense council at the Élysée Palace. “No one can think that the issue of Iran’s nuclear program, ballistic activity, or regional destabilization will be resolved simply through strikes,” he added.

“France was neither informed nor involved, just like all the countries in the region and our allies,” he also noted.

Iran requests urgent IAEA meeting after US-Israeli strikes

Iran’s permanent mission to the United Nations in Vienna on Saturday called on the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to hold an “extraordinary and urgent” meeting, following strikes by Israel and the United States against Iran, challenging its nuclear program.

The Iranian mission said on X that it “has requested, in a letter addressed to Rafael Grossi (IAEA Director General), the holding of an extraordinary and urgent meeting of the IAEA Board of Governors.”

“The unfounded allegations, odious threats, and reprehensible acts of the aggressors against Iran’s peaceful nuclear program must be examined immediately by the Board,” it added.

2 Turkish journalists arrested near airbase hosting US forces

Two Turkish journalists working for the news agency Anka were arrested on Saturday for live-streaming a sensitive airbase hosting U.S. troops in southern Turkey, Anka reported.

“Two journalists were detained … as part of an investigation opened by the Adana prosecutor’s office regarding Anka news agency’s broadcast of footage from the surroundings of the Incirlik airbase,” the agency said.

France puts internal security forces on high alert

Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez on Saturday ordered French law enforcement to be “on alert” to “detect any action likely to disturb public order” following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran.

In a telegram obtained by AFP, the minister specifically called for increased security around diplomatic missions and instructed prefects to “immediately report to intelligence services any influence or destabilization activities related to this conflict.”

International Atomic Energy Agency urges ‘restraint’

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on Saturday called for “restraint” to “avoid any risk to the nuclear safety of populations” in the Middle East.

“The IAEA is in continuous contact with countries in the region,” the U.N. agency responsible for promoting the peaceful use of nuclear energy said on X, adding that “no radiological impact has been detected to date.”

Strait of Hormuz 'unsafe due to attacks,' shut to ship transit, say Iran guards

Israeli army says it carried out ‘the largest air strikes’ in its history

New Israeli strikes underway in central Iran

The Israeli army announced Saturday at around 5:00 p.m. GMT a “new wave of strikes” against military targets in Iran, including missile launchers, as part of its joint attack launched earlier with the United States against the Islamic Republic.

The Israeli Air Force has “begun a new wave of strikes targeting missile launchers and air defense systems of the Iranian terrorist regime in central Iran,” a brief military statement said.

New strikes hit an Iraqi base hosting a pro-Iranian group, the group said in a statement.

A source close to the presidential palace told L’OLJ that U.S. Ambassador Michel Issa conveyed to the president a message from the Trump administration stating that Israel would not escalate in Lebanon as long as it is not attacked from Lebanese territory.

2 neighborhoods in Bushehr, in southern Iran, targeted by missiles

Two neighborhoods in Bushehr, a city in southern Iran that is home to a nuclear power plant, were “targeted by missiles,” the Fars news agency reported Saturday evening.

Fars did not immediately provide further details but added that several successive explosions were also heard near Garmdarreh (north) and Qom, the holy city south of Tehran.

A government source told L’Orient Today on Saturday that it is “highly likely” that the support conference for the Lebanese Army, scheduled for Thursday in Paris, will be postponed

Turkey urges 'all parties' to end hostilities

Turkey urged “all parties” to put an end to the spiral of violence triggered by the U.S.-Israeli strikes against Iran, following a phone call between Turkey’s foreign minister and his Iranian counterpart.

Turkey called for an “urgent” resumption of dialogue to ease tensions.

“We call on all parties to immediately cease hostilities,” the Turkish Foreign Ministry said in a statement, warning that these events “jeopardize the future of our region and global stability.”

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan immediately contacted his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi, by phone, as well as six other senior diplomats, to discuss ways to “put an end to the attacks,” a ministry source said.

“The recent escalation of tensions is unacceptable. It is essential to urgently reactivate mechanisms for dialogue and negotiation,” presidential communications director Burhanettin Duran wrote on X.

Turkey, he said, will continue its efforts “to reduce tensions through diplomatic channels.”

An Iranian state channel removed a report about an 'imminent speech' by Khamenei

Iran’s Arabic-language state channel Al-Alam TV deleted shortly after publication a report announcing an “imminent speech” by Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

The fate of the senior cleric remains unknown at this stage. The United States and Israel targeted him in a strike earlier in the day. “To my knowledge, all senior officials are alive: We are in control of the situation and everything is fine,” Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said earlier.

Following the strike that killed former Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah on Sept. 27, 2024, a source within the party had initially told AFP that he was “well.” The party officially confirmed his death the following day, after the Israeli army’s announcement.

Washington advises commercial vessels to stay away from the Gulf

The U.S. Department of Transportation has urged commercial vessels to “remain clear” of the Gulf due to “significant military activity” in the region following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran.

In a notice published on its website, the department also called on “all U.S.-affiliated commercial vessels” to “maintain a distance of 30 nautical miles from U.S. military vessels to reduce the risk of being misidentified as a threat.”

In addition to the Gulf, the advisory covers the Strait of Hormuz, the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea.

Jordanian army says it intercepted 13 ballistic missiles since this morning

Iranian president condemns 'barbaric' attack on school that killed at least 85, state media say

Iranian President Massoud Pezeshkian today condemned what he described as a “barbaric” attack on a school in southern Iran, following U.S. and Israeli strikes on the Islamic Republic.

“This barbaric act marks another dark page in the record of the countless crimes committed by the aggressors,” Pezeshkian said in a statement, as Iranian state media raised the death toll to at least 85, with dozens more injured.

Hariri condemns Iranian attacks, calls for Lebanon’s neutrality

Former Prime Minister Saad Hariri on Saturday “strongly condemned the unacceptable Iranian aggression against several Arab Gulf states.”

“While expressing my full solidarity with these countries and their peoples, I consider this aggression a serious threat to Arab national security and a blatant violation of the sovereignty of nations that have consistently worked to promote security and peace in the region and to ensure stability and prosperity for their populations,” Hariri wrote on X.

He also called for “a clear policy that prioritizes Lebanon’s interests.” “This policy must reject any attempt to drag Lebanon into the vortex of wars or turn it into a theater for regional confrontations, at a time when the Lebanese people have already paid a heavy price in lives, livelihoods and stability as a result of wars that have brought nothing but destruction and misery,” he said.

“I call on everyone to adopt a responsible stance and rally behind the state and its institutions to ensure Lebanon’s neutrality in any military confrontation amid the current escalation,” he added.

IRGC spokesperson says Iranian attacks will be 'more forceful and more extensive,' state media report

The spokesperson for the Khatam al-Anbiya Central Headquarters of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said that attacks by Iran’s armed forces would be “more forceful and more extensive,” state media reported, according to Reuters.

EU called for 'maximum restraint' after U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran triggered retaliatory attacks across the region

The EU today called for “maximum restraint” after U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran triggered retaliatory attacks across the region.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described the developments as “greatly concerning,” stressing that “ensuring nuclear safety and preventing further escalation or damage to the global non-proliferation regime is of critical importance.” In a joint statement with European Council President Antonio Costa, she urged all parties “to protect civilians and fully respect international law.”

Iran retaliated with missile barrages targeting Israel and Gulf states hosting U.S. bases, with explosions reported in several regional capitals.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said non-essential EU staff were being withdrawn and that the bloc’s consular network was assisting EU citizens seeking to leave. She added that the EU’s Aspides naval mission in the Red Sea remains “on high alert.”

EU member states will hold emergency talks in Brussels tomorrow, followed by a European Commission meeting on Monday.

All universities closed until further notice

All universities in Iran will remain closed until further notice, the official news agency Irna reported today, following Israeli and U.S. strikes against the Islamic Republic.

“The Ministry of Science has announced the closure of all universities across the country until further notice,” Irna wrote. In Iran, the Ministry of Science oversees universities.

Berlin tightens travel advisories for the Middle East

Germany on Saturday strengthened its travel advisories for the Middle East.

Travel is now discouraged to Lebanon, Jordan, Syria, Iraq, Iran, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Yemen, according to the Foreign Ministry’s website.

In addition, German nationals have been urged to leave Lebanon, the ministry said following a government crisis meeting. Iran has already been subject to the same departure recommendation since 2022.

Israel engaged in “decisive and unprecedented” operation against Iran, army chief says.

The death toll from the attack on a school in southern Iran has risen to 85.

Explosion reported on Dubai’s palm island

Two witnesses told AFP they heard an explosion and saw a column of smoke rising from Dubai’s iconic artificial island, The Palm, as Iran carried out retaliatory strikes in the Gulf following U.S. and Israeli attacks.

One witness said he saw thick black smoke rising from a hotel located on The Palm and heard ambulances heading toward the scene.

Residents of Dubai and AFP journalists on the ground also reported hearing several loud blasts after the initial explosion.

Hezbollah condemns Israeli strikes, expresses 'solidarity' with Iran

Hezbollah on Saturday condemned in a statement what it called the “treacherous U.S.-Israeli aggression targeting Iran, after months of Zionist and American threats.”

“Hezbollah, while declaring its full solidarity with the Islamic Republic of Iran, its leadership and its people, calls on the countries and peoples of the region to oppose this aggressive project and to recognize its danger. Its disastrous consequences will affect everyone without exception if nothing is done,” the Shiite party said.

“We are convinced that the American and Israeli enemy will suffer a major setback and reap nothing but failure from its tyrannical and criminal aggression,” the statement added.

“This aggression will only strengthen Iran’s power, resilience and determination, and reinforce its commitment to its legitimate rights,” Hezbollah said, without indicating any intention to become directly involved in the ongoing conflict.

The party described the strikes as “a blatant violation of international law and the United Nations Charter.”

Trump and Netanyahu spoke by phone, according to the Israeli prime minister’s office.

The Israeli army says it intercepted several aircraft launched from Iran.

'Operation Epic Fury': high risk, high potential reward, Trump reportedly told

U.S. President Donald Trump was informed ahead of the strikes on Iran that the operation carried significant risks but also potentially major benefits, a U.S. official told Reuters.

China calls for cease-fire, says Iran’s sovereignty must be respected

China’s Foreign Ministry expressed deep concern over developments in the region and called for an immediate cease-fire.

It said Iran’s national sovereignty, security and territorial integrity must be respected, urging all parties to avoid further escalation and return to dialogue.

Three Israeli drones shot down by Iranian air force in separate areas

Three Israeli Hermes-type drones were shot down by Iran’s air force, the Iranian news agency Tasnim reported today. The drones reportedly crashed in Tabriz in northwestern Iran, Ahvaz in the south and Khomein in central Iran.

Drone strikes Kuwait airport, causing minor injuries

A drone struck Kuwait International Airport today, the Civil Aviation Authority said, causing minor injuries.

“A drone targeted Kuwait International Airport, causing light injuries to several employees and limited material damage to the passenger terminal,” the authority said in a statement.

New wave of Israeli strikes against Iran

The Israeli army said Saturday it had launched a new wave of strikes targeting Iranian missile launchers, AFP reported.

The army “has begun aerial operations and is currently striking missile launchers in Iran to counter the threat against the State of Israel,” it said, after earlier announcing it had carried out a “large-scale strike” against Iranian air defense systems.

UN Security Council to hold emergency meeting

The United Nations Security Council will meet Saturday at 9:00 p.m. GMT (4:00 p.m. in New York) to discuss “the situation in the Middle East” following the military operation launched by Washington against Iran, the U.N. announced.

The meeting was requested by France and Bahrain, according to Israel’s mission to the U.N.

U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the “escalation” in the region and called for an “immediate cessation of hostilities.”

Israeli emergency services report a second injured person after new Iranian missile fire.

Qatar temporarily closes its territorial waters after Iranian strikes

Qatar announced Saturday that it is temporarily suspending maritime traffic in its territorial waters following Iranian attacks on U.S. military bases in the Gulf, including Al-Udeid Air Base on the outskirts of Doha.

“In the interest of public safety, the Ministry of Transport calls on all maritime vessels, whether privately or commercially owned, to temporarily suspend navigation,” it said in a statement.

British prime minister says U.S.-Israeli operation is 'in accordance with international law'

British fighter jets are “in the sky” today conducting “coordinated regional defensive operations aimed at protecting our people, our interests and our allies,” Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced.

In his first public reaction to the U.S.-Israeli attack on Iran, the British leader said the operation was “in accordance with international law.” He made the remarks in a brief televised address after holding an emergency meeting with several ministers and security officials to assess developments in the Middle East.

Drone targets Kuwait International Airport, official news agency says

A drone targeted Kuwait International Airport, causing minor injuries to several employees and limited material damage, Kuwait’s official news agency reported today, cited by Reuters, as Iran continued strikes on U.S. bases in the region.

Several explosions heard in Chiraz, south of Iran

Several explosions rocked the major southern Iranian city of Shiraz late this afternoon, according to the Fars news agency, following Israeli and U.S. strikes earlier in the day targeting Tehran and several other cities.

“A short while ago, enemy airstrikes began against targets around Shiraz and several explosions were heard,” Fars reported, without providing further details for the moment.

'To my knowledge, all senior Iranian officials are alive,' Araghchi says

“To my knowledge, all senior officials are alive: we are in control of the situation and everything is fine,” Iran’s foreign minister said during a 30-minute interview on NBC News, as the fate of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei and Iranian President Massoud Pezeshkian remains unclear following strikes that reportedly targeted them today.

“We are in favor of de-escalation. The attacks must first stop, after which the possibility of dialogue can exist,” Abbas Araghchi said. “We will not renounce our rights, including the right to enrichment” of uranium, he added. “I see a possibility of reaching an agreement capable of guaranteeing the peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear program.”

“We do not have detailed information allowing us to determine whether the U.S. strikes destroyed Iranian missile bases,” Araghchi said. “I have spoken with my Russian counterpart and also exchanged with representatives from the region, including Turkey, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait,” he added.

New explosion in Dubai

AFP journalists heard a new loud explosion in Dubai today, and one of them saw a column of smoke rising above the city.

The explosions come amid large-scale Iranian attacks in the Gulf, carried out in retaliation for U.S. and Israeli strikes against Iran.

The Iranian government has called on residents of Tehran to leave the city, in text messages sent to mobile phones across Iran, AFP reports.

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei to deliver speech in the coming minutes

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei is expected to deliver a speech in the coming minutes following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, according to Iran’s Arabic-language state channel Al-Alam TV, Reuters reports.

U.N. chief condemns 'escalation' in the Middle East, calls for 'immediate cessation of hostilities'

U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres condemned the “military escalation in the Middle East.” “I call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and de-escalation,” he said in a statement.

'Fuel and medicines available for at least two months,' Salam reassures Lebanese

The prime minister spoke following an expanded meeting at the Grand Serail.

Find all the details here.

'No bread crisis in Lebanon,' Economy Minister and bakers’ union say

Economy Minister Amer Bsat and the bakers’ and bakery owners’ union sought to reassure the public, saying there will be “no bread crisis” in Lebanon.

Lebanon has “46,000 tons of wheat, an amount sufficient for more than two months of consumption under normal conditions,” the minister said, adding that “two ships are expected to arrive in the coming days, and bread will remain continuously available to citizens,” according to local media.

“Supermarket owners have confirmed they have sufficient stock for three to four weeks under normal circumstances, while external reserves cover a period of between three and four months,” he added. Bsat also warned “against any exploitation of the situation or attempts to raise prices.”

For his part, the head of the bakers’ union said that “there is no bread crisis in Lebanon and the bread situation is stable, despite the circumstances and ongoing military developments in the region.” He urged citizens “not to rush to buy bread or flour in quantities exceeding normal needs, as this unnecessarily disrupts the market,” stressing that “production continues and distribution is ensured across Lebanese territory.”

Saudi Arabia says Iran attacked Riyadh

Saudi Arabia said today that Iran had attacked its capital, Riyadh, as well as its Eastern Province, Reuters reported.

The Saudi Foreign Ministry said the attacks on its territory had been repelled, without providing further details.

The ministry condemned the Iranian attacks, noting that they occurred despite Riyadh’s announcement that it would not allow its airspace to be used against Iran.

“The Israeli army carried out a large-scale air campaign against strategic air defense systems belonging to the Iranian terrorist regime,” Ella Wawiya, the Israeli army’s Arabic-language spokesperson, wrote on X.

“One of the strikes targeted an advanced SA-65 air defense system located in the Kermanshah region. The Israeli army continues its attacks against infrastructure belonging to the Iranian terrorist regime in order to counter threats against the State of Israel,” the statement added.

All operations were suspended at Dubai airport

Amateur footage showing travelers stranded at Dubai International Airport after all operations were suspended on Feb. 28. Several flights were cancelled.

Witnesses told AFP they saw smoke rising from Al Dhafrah base in Abu Dhabi.

The United States urges its citizens to 'leave Lebanon now while commercial options remain available'

The United States is urging its nationals to “leave Lebanon now while commercial options remain available” and is also advising American citizens “not to travel” to Lebanon, according to a message posted on the website of the U.S. Embassy in Beirut.

New explosions heard in Abu Dhabi, Manama and Doha

Residents and AFP journalists in the Emirati, Qatari and Bahraini capitals reported hearing new explosions as Tehran carried out strikes in retaliation for the U.S.-Israeli attack on Iran.

An AFP correspondent in Manama heard at least two blasts, while journalists in Qatar reported a new wave of explosions. Residents and a journalist in Abu Dhabi also reported hearing explosions.

Iran’s defense minister and the head of the Revolutionary Guards have been killed in Israeli attacks, Reuters reports.

Iranian attacks on Israel and US bases will continue, Revolutionary Guards say

A source within Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said Iranian attacks against Israel, as well as against U.S. bases and interests across the region, “will continue without interruption,” according to the Fars news agency.

MBS expresses full solidarity with the United Arab Emirates

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman held a phone call with UAE leader Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to discuss the recent Iranian attacks, the official Emirati news agency WAM reported.

“During the call, they discussed developments in the region and the Iranian attacks targeting the United Arab Emirates and several brotherly countries,” the agency said.

“His Royal Highness the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia expressed the Kingdom’s condemnation of these attacks, its full solidarity and support for the United Arab Emirates, and its readiness to place all its resources at the UAE’s disposal in any measures it may take,” the statement added.

Major fires in Bahrain after the alleged fall of missiles launched from Iran

🤳 #Video | Images showing major fires in Bahrain after the alleged fall of missiles launched from Iran. pic.twitter.com/o4P3emN4qT

— L'Orient Today (@lorienttoday) February 28, 2026

Israeli army warns Hezbollah: 'If you make the grave mistake [of getting involved], our response will be powerful'

The Israeli army has warned against any involvement by Hezbollah alongside Iran, calling it a “grave mistake.”

“We are taking into account the possibility of Hezbollah’s involvement in this fight, and our message is clear: If you make this grave mistake, our response will be powerful,” the Israeli army’s Arabic-language spokesperson, Avichay Adraee, said in a video message.

“Israeli army forces remain deployed along the entire northern front, with significant military reinforcements in place to ensure, first and foremost and at all times, the protection of our citizens. We can shift from defense to offense at any moment, if the situation requires,” he added.

Earlier in the day, Israel said it “hopes to mobilize 70,000 reservists in the coming days,” according to an Israeli official cited by Reuters. Hezbollah had not issued any statement as of Saturday.

'Logistics' meeting at the Grand Serail in Beirut on measures to take in case of escalation

According to information obtained by L’OLJ from a minister, a meeting was held at the Grand Serail under the chairmanship of Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam to address “logistical matters.” The official said the possibility of Hezbollah intervening in the war was not discussed. “It was mainly to put in place measures to be taken if the situation were to worsen,” he added. The meeting was attended by Health Minister Rakan Nassereddine, a member of Hezbollah.

United Arab Emirates intercepts a new wave of missiles

The UAE Ministry of Defense said a new wave of missiles had been intercepted as Iran continues to strike U.S. bases in the Gulf. The explosions heard earlier in Dubai may be linked to these interceptions.

Three blasts heard in Dubai

At least three explosions were heard in the Dubai area, according to witnesses contacted by Reuters.

Kuwait intercepted missiles targeting a US base

Kuwait said it had intercepted missiles targeting a U.S. base, AFP reports.

All sites involved in strikes against Iran are 'legitimate targets,' Tehran says

All sites involved in operations against Iran are “legitimate targets,” according to Iran’s foreign minister, AFP reports.

Strikes against Iran 'totally irresponsible,' says ICAN

U.S. and Israeli strikes against Iran are “totally irresponsible” and risk triggering further escalation, the head of the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN), a Nobel Peace Prize, winning organization, said, according to AFP.

“These attacks are totally irresponsible and risk provoking further escalation, as well as increasing the danger of nuclear proliferation and the use of nuclear weapons,” ICAN Executive Director Melissa Parke said in a statement. “Military action is neither a viable nor a sustainable solution to preventing nuclear proliferation,” she added. “All military action must cease immediately.”

Based in Geneva, ICAN was awarded the 2017 Nobel Peace Prize for its key role in drafting the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW), which entered into force in 2021.

Israel bans public gatherings and closes schools

Israel has banned public gatherings, closed schools and workplaces, and transferred hospital patients to underground facilities, according to the Israeli daily Haaretz.

Police have urged the public to avoid non-essential travel to allow security and emergency vehicles to move freely.

'This is not your war': Oman’s foreign minister urges the United States not to 'become further entangled'

Badr al-Busaidi, Oman’s foreign minister, who had served as a mediator during recent rounds of indirect negotiations between the United States and Iran, reacted to the U.S.-Israeli attacks on Iran and Tehran’s response.

In a message posted on social media, the diplomat said he was “dismayed” by the attacks. “Active and serious negotiations have once again been undermined. Neither the interests of the United States nor the cause of global peace are being served. And I pray for the innocents who will suffer,” he added. “I urge the United States not to become further entangled. This is not your war.”

Some major oil companies and trading houses have suspended crude oil and fuel shipments through the Strait of Hormuz due to the ongoing U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran and Tehran’s retaliation, four trading sources said. “Our vessels will remain docked for several days,” a senior official at a major trading firm said.

UAE announces interception of a second wave of Iranian missiles

The United Arab Emirates intercepted a second wave of Iranian missile fire, the Defense Ministry announced, according to AFP.

UN deplores the strikes and calls on 'all parties to show reason'

U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk deplored the strikes carried out in the Middle East and urged all parties to return to negotiations, saying the attacks would only bring “death, destruction and human devastation,” AFP reports.

“I deplore the military strikes carried out this morning in Iran by Israel and the United States of America, as well as Iran’s subsequent retaliatory strikes. As always, in any armed conflict, it is civilians who ultimately pay the highest price,” Türk said in a statement. “To avoid these terrible consequences for civilians, I call for restraint and urge all parties to show reason, de-escalate the situation and return to the negotiating table, where they were actively seeking a solution just hours earlier,” he added.

Four killed by falling Iranian missile in southern Syria

Four people were killed when an Iranian missile fell in southern Syria, near Israel, Syria’s official news agency SANA announced, cited by AFP.

“Four dead and a number of injured after an Iranian missile fell on a building in the industrial zone of the city of Sweida,” the agency said. Syria has partially closed its airspace in the south of the country following the start of U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, which has retaliated.

Hamas condemns 'American-Zionist aggression' against Iran

Hamas, which has been at war with Israel for more than two years despite the fragile cease-fire in place in the Gaza Strip, condemned “in the strongest terms the American-Zionist aggression” against Iran following the attack launched by Washington and Israel, AFP reports.

Hamas “condemns in the strongest terms the American-Zionist aggression against the Islamic Republic of Iran and affirms that it constitutes a direct attack against the entire region and an assault on its security, stability and sovereignty,” the movement said in a statement.

War in Iran and the Middle East: First analysis from Lebanon

Combination of screenshots from UGC videos showing a strike on Tehran. (Credit: AFP / UGC images)

The Middle East woke up this morning to a new war, the second against Iran in less than a year. What are its objectives, and how might events unfold from here?

Our editor-in-chief, Anthony Samrani, offers some initial analysis. Read more here.

Macron: The floor must be given back to the Iranian people

“The floor must be given back to the Iranian people: The sooner, the better,” French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized on X.

Israeli strikes on a school in southern Iran: death toll rises to 40, according to Tehran

The death toll from Israeli strikes that hit a girls’ school in Minab, in southern Iran, has risen to 40, according to a local official cited by Iranian state media.

Rockets intercepted over the US consulate in Erbil

Rockets were intercepted over the U.S. consulate in Erbil, in Iraqi Kurdistan, according to Reuters.

Iranian army announces new wave of dozens of drones launched toward Israel

The Iranian army announced it had launched a new wave of dozens of drones toward Israel.

Qatar intercepts a third wave of Iranian projectiles

Qatar announced it had intercepted a third wave of projectiles targeting several areas of the country, according to Reuters.

'Significant damage' caused by an Iranian missile at a base in Kuwait

A missile launched by Iran in retaliation for U.S. and Israeli strikes caused “significant damage” to the runway of an air base in Kuwait that hosts members of the Italian Air Force, Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said, quoted by the Ansa news agency and reported by AFP.

“The runway sustained significant damage, but no Italian personnel were injured,” Tajani told reporters, specifying that Italian troops had taken shelter in a bunker on the base.

Israel says it has struck 'hundreds of Iranian military targets'

The Israeli army announced that it had struck “hundreds of Iranian military targets, including missile launchers,” according to AFP.

The Russian Embassy in Tel Aviv recommends its nationals leave Israel

The Russian embassy in Israel called on its nationals to leave the country after “the sharp deterioration of the security situation” following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, AFP reports.

“We recommend that those who have the possibility leave Israel until the situation returns to normal,” the embassy said in a statement on Telegram, urging Russian nationals who remain to be “vigilant” and to follow the security instructions of the Israeli authorities.

Araghchi to his Gulf counterparts: Iran will use all its capabilities to defend itself

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Telegram, in a message to his counterparts in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain and Iraq, that Iran “will use all its defensive and military capabilities within its legitimate right to self-defense,” Reuters reports. He called on them to prevent the United States and Israel from “abusing their territories” to carry out attacks against Iran.

Iraqi militia Kataeb Hezbollah threatens imminent attacks on U.S. bases

The powerful pro-Iranian group Kataeb Hezbollah in Iraq warned it intends to launch imminent attacks against U.S. bases after airstrikes targeted an Iraqi military base hosting the group, AFP reports.

“We will soon begin attacking American bases in response to their aggression,” the group said in a statement, after two fighters were killed in airstrikes that hit the Jurf al-Sakher base, also known as Jurf al-Nasr, in southern Iraq.

Moscow denounces a 'dangerous adventure' that threatens the region with 'catastrophe'

Russia denounced the U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran as a “dangerous adventure” threatening the region with “catastrophe” and aimed at “destroying” the Iranian government because it refused to submit to their “diktat,” AFP reports.

“Washington and Tel Aviv have once again launched a dangerous adventure that is rapidly bringing the region closer to a humanitarian and economic catastrophe—and, it cannot be ruled out, a radiological one,” the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement. “The intentions of the aggressors are clear and openly declared: to destroy the constitutional order and to destroy the government of a state that is undesirable to them and has refused to submit to the diktat of force and hegemonism,” it added.

Bahrain: Interior Ministry evacuates the Juffair district

Bahrain’s Interior Ministry announced it had begun evacuating residents of the Juffair neighborhood, where a U.S. naval base is located.

As previously reported, smoke was seen rising above the area. “We call for your cooperation with the competent authorities,” the ministry said.

The Red Cross warns of a 'dangerous chain reaction'

The International Committee of the Red Cross fears a “dangerous chain reaction” after the strikes on Iran, AFP reports.

Norway says strikes on Iran ‘not in accordance’ with international law

Strikes against Iran, described by Israel as “preemptive,” are “not in accordance” with international law, Norway’s foreign minister said, calling for a diplomatic solution.

“The attack is described by Israel as a preemptive strike, but it is not in accordance with international law. A preemptive attack presupposes the existence of an imminent threat,” Espen Barth Eide said in an email sent to AFP by his office.

“We call on the parties to exercise restraint and not to abandon opportunities to find diplomatic solutions to the conflict,” he added.

Israel: Projectile impacts reported in several locations

The Israeli army said that projectile impacts had been reported “in several locations” across Israel following missile launches from Iran, AFP reports.

“Search and rescue forces are operating in several locations across the country where reports of fallen projectiles have been received. The public is asked to continue following” safety instructions, the army said.

Israeli strikes on Iran kill 24 schoolchildren, according to Iranian media

The death toll from strikes attributed to Israel on a school in Iran has risen to 24, according to Iranian media.

According to the Irna news agency, the strike targeted a girls’ elementary school in Minab, in Hormozgan province in southern Iran.

Iranian missiles once again target Israel

The Israeli army is attempting to intercept a new wave of Iranian missiles launched “a short while ago,” according to a statement.

“A short while ago, sirens sounded in several regions of the country following the identification of missiles launched from Iran toward the State of Israel,” the statement said. “At this stage, the Israeli Air Force is operating to intercept and strike the threats as necessary in order to neutralize the danger.”

“Defense is not hermetic, and it is therefore essential that the public continue to comply with the instructions of the Home Front Command,” the alert added.

Kuwait condemns Iranian attacks, reserves right to respond

Kuwait’s Foreign Ministry condemned the attacks carried out by Iran on its territory, saying they were conducted “in blatant violation” of its airspace and international law.

It said Kuwait reserves the right to respond in a manner “proportionate to the scale and nature of these attacks,” and warned that any further military activity would undermine regional stability.

Moscow calls for immediate halt to strikes on Iran, warns of broader instability

Russia urged an immediate halt to U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran, saying the situation must “be brought back onto the path of a political and diplomatic settlement,” Reuters reports.

The Foreign Ministry said the international community should swiftly provide an objective assessment of what it described as irresponsible actions that risk further destabilizing the region.

Moscow added that it remains ready, as before, to contribute to efforts aimed at finding peaceful solutions based on international law, mutual respect and a balance of interests.

Tehran residents advised to leave the capital

Iran’s Supreme National Security Council has advised residents to leave the capital, Tehran.

Given the situation, “you should, as far as possible and while remaining calm, move to other regions and cities if you have the ability to do so,” the country’s security body said in a statement.

Indonesia offers to mediate after US strikes on Iran

Indonesia has offered to mediate following U.S. strikes against Iran, according to a statement from its Foreign Ministry cited by AFP.

Five students killed by US-Israeli strikes in southern Iran

Israeli strikes killed five students at a girls’ elementary school in Minab, in Hormozgan province in southern Iran, according to the Irna news agency.

Iran confirms it targeted US Navy in Bahrain

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards confirmed that they had targeted the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet stationed in Bahrain, after the Gulf state earlier announced that the base had been hit in a missile attack, AFP reports.

“The missiles and drones of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps struck the headquarters of the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet in Bahrain, as well as other American bases in Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, and military and security centers located in the heart of the occupied territories,” the ideological army of the Islamic Republic of Iran said in a statement carried by the Tasnim news agency.

Von der Leyen calls for ‘maximum restraint,’ says nuclear safety is ‘crucial’

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called for “maximum restraint” following Israeli and U.S. strikes on Iran and Tehran’s retaliatory fire, stressing that ensuring nuclear safety is “crucial,” AFP reports.

“Ensuring nuclear safety and preventing any action that could further escalate tensions or undermine the global non-proliferation regime is of crucial importance,” von der Leyen said, describing developments in Iran as “worrying.”

“We call on all parties to exercise maximum restraint, protect civilians and fully respect international law,” she added in a joint statement with European Council President Antonio Costa.

Current military campaign against Iran deemed ‘more significant’ than previous one, says Israeli army spokesperson

Israeli army spokesperson Effie Defrin said that the campaign launched Saturday against Iran is expected to be “more significant” than the 12-day war between Israel and Iran in June 2025, Haaretz reports.

Israeli security source says Israel struck Iran over accelerated missile production

An Israeli security source said Israel struck Iran because of the “increasingly rapid” development of its ballistic missile production, AFP reports.

“They are developing dozens of ballistic missiles each month, and their production rate is becoming faster and faster,” the source said. “This is a regime advancing toward the production of thousands of missiles in the coming years, a dramatic expansion of an already dangerous arsenal,” the source added, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Explosions heard in Tel Aviv

Explosions were heard in Tel Aviv, according to witnesses cited by Reuters. No further information is available at this time. Airstrikes sirens had sounded in the Israeli city about 30 minutes earlier.

North Lebanon: Hamat municipality announces closure of airport road and gradual opening of bypass

The municipality of Hamat, in the Batroun district of North Lebanon, announced in a statement that it had received notification from the command of the Hamat Air Base that the road leading to the airport area and connecting to Hamat Airport would be closed, our correspondent in North Lebanon, Michel Hallak, reported. The Lebanese base hosts a presence of U.S. soldiers.

The municipality said traffic would be diverted to the Mar Georges Monastery road, which will be opened gradually, and called on residents to take note and comply with the issued instructions.

EU describes situation as ‘perilous’

The European Union described the situation in the Middle East as “perilous” and called for the protection of civilians following the attacks on Iran and Tehran’s response, AFP reports.

Lines at Lebanese gas stations amid fuel shortage fears; Brax reassures

In Lebanon, people rushed to gas stations in a wave of panic over fears of fuel shortages or price hikes following the U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran and Tehran’s retaliation. Lines formed at gas pumps in several Beirut neighborhoods, as well as in Tripoli.

In response, Georges Brax, head of Lebanon’s gas station owners’ syndicate, urged residents not to panic. “We reassure everyone: fuel is widely available in Lebanon and there is no reason to fear a shortage or rush to gas stations,” he said in a statement. “The situation is normal and the current events in the Gulf have no impact on gasoline supplies in our country,” he added.

Saudi Arabia condemns Iranian strikes against Gulf states

Riyadh condemned “Iranian aggression” against the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait and Jordan, according to a statement cited by AFP.

Iraq: At least two killed in attack on base of pro-Iranian group

An attack targeting an Iraqi military base hosting a pro-Iranian group left at least two people dead, Iraqi authorities said today.

The Jurf al-Sakher base, also known as Jurf al-Nasr, in southern Iraq, belongs to the Hashed al-Shaabi, or Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF), a former paramilitary group now integrated into the regular army. However, the base mainly hosts the powerful pro-Iranian group Hezbollah.

A Hezbollah source told AFP that “two martyrs and five others injured are to be counted in the aggression against the Jurf al-Nasr base.”

Iraq’s government Security Media Cell said that “at 11:50 a.m., the Jurf al-Nasr area … was targeted by several airstrikes, resulting in the martyrdom of two people.” Three others were wounded. The Hashed al-Shaabi confirmed the attack and the casualties. A PMF source told AFP: “It is not yet clear whether the attack was carried out by the Americans or the Israelis.”

Israeli army announces ‘large-scale reinforcement’ of its forces on all fronts

The Israeli army announced Saturday a “large-scale reinforcement” of its forces on all fronts following the launch of coordinated strikes on Iran with the United States.

The Operations Directorate “has begun a large-scale reinforcement of ground forces across all sectors and regional commands [covering Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories], as well as the reinforcement and deployment of special forces, as part of raising readiness for various offensive and defensive scenarios,” the army said in a statement.

“Additionally, significant reinforcements will be deployed within the Air Force and Navy, alongside the strengthening of all firepower systems,” it added.

The army “hopes to mobilize 70,000 reservists in the coming days,” an Israeli official told Reuters. “Our objective is to weaken Iranian capabilities and eliminate existential threats against Israel,” he said. “Israel continues to carry out strikes on Iran. We have targeted key Iranian figures involved in the plan to destroy Israel. We are still assessing the success of the initial strikes carried out against Iran,” he added.

Senior Iranian officials killed in US-Israeli strikes; Pezeshkian and Khamenei were targeted

Several commanders of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and political officials were killed in a series of U.S.-Israeli strikes, an Iranian source close to the country’s leadership told Reuters.

The United States and Israel targeted Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and President Massoud Pezeshkian in their strikes, but the outcome of these operations remains uncertain, an Israeli official said. The official did not provide further details, Reuters added.

Loud explosion heard in Riyadh

Explosions were heard in Riyadh, according to AFP correspondents, amid regional escalation after U.S. bases in Bahrain and Qatar were targeted, with Iran having vowed to retaliate for American and Israeli attacks.

Two AFP journalists on the ground reported hearing a loud blast followed by several explosions.

At least one killed in Abu Dhabi

At least one person was killed in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, after several missiles launched from Iran were intercepted, according to the country’s official news agency.

The United Arab Emirates said that “this attack constitutes a blatant violation of national sovereignty and international law.” It added that it “fully reserves the right to respond to this escalation.”

Attacks on Iran: The United States has shown its ‘true face,’ denounces former Russian president Medvedev

Former Russian president and current deputy chairman of Russia’s Security Council, Dmitry Medvedev, condemned the U.S. and Israeli bombardments of Iran, saying that the United States had shown its “true face” by carrying out the strikes, AFP reports.

“The self-proclaimed peacemaker has once again shown his true face. All the negotiations with Iran were merely a cover operation. No one doubted it. No one truly intended to negotiate anything in particular,” Medvedev said in a message published in Russian on his Telegram account.

Israel calls on residents near military facilities to evacuate

Israel has called on residents living near military installations “across the country” to evacuate, AFP reports.

Iran’s Revolutionary Guards announce ‘a wave of missiles and drones’ against Israel

A new wave of missile and drone attacks has been launched against Israel, according to Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, as cited by AFP.

Iran confirms strikes on several sites in the Gulf

Iran has confirmed that it targeted several sites in the Gulf, including Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar, Al-Salem Air Base in Kuwait, Al-Dhafra Air Base in the United Arab Emirates, as well as the U.S. Fifth Fleet base in Bahrain, according to the Fars News Agency.

Strikes on Iran: Increased ‘strike’ to ship security in the Gulf

There is an increased “risk” to the security of vessels in the Gulf following the attacks on Iran, one of the world’s leading shipowners’ associations (Bimco) warned, as cited by AFP.

New explosions heard in Abu Dhabi and Dubai

Numerous new explosions were heard in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, according to Al Jazeera.

Airstrikes sirens in Qatar

Warning sirens are sounding near a U.S. base in Qatar, an AFP journalist reports.

US naval base hit in “missile attack” in Bahrain

A facility at the headquarters of the U.S. Fifth Fleet in Bahrain was hit in a “missile attack,” the country’s authorities said in a statement, AFP reports.

“The Fifth Fleet service center was targeted in a missile attack. We will provide further details later,” Bahrain’s National Communication Center said.

Large-scale Israeli strikes underway in western Iran

The Israeli army announced today shortly before 9:30 a.m. GMT that its aircraft were carrying out “large-scale” strikes in western Iran, AFP reports.

“The Israeli Air Force is currently conducting a large-scale strike against several military targets belonging to the Iranian regime in western Iran,” a military statement said, without providing further details.

Missiles intercepted over Qatar

Qatar’s Defense Ministry said it had “thwarted several attacks against Qatari territory.”

“The threat was addressed upon detection, in accordance with the established security plan, and all missiles were intercepted before reaching Qatari territory,” the ministry said. Several explosions had been heard in Doha.

Casualties in Iraq after attack on base of pro-Iranian group

There were casualties in an attack on a base in Iraq housing a pro-Iranian group, according to security sources cited by AFP.

US base in Bahrain struck; explosions heard in Kuwait

Bahrain announced that a U.S. base in the country was hit in a “missile attack,” AFP reports.

Explosions were also heard in Kuwait, according to a correspondent.

Syrian airspace partially and temporarily closed

Syria has partially and temporarily closed its airspace, according to an official statement, AFP reports.

Explosion reported in Abu Dhabi

A strong explosion was reported in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, according to Reuters.

Map: Iranian sites targeted by Israeli-American strikes

Explosions heard in Manama

AFP correspondents in Manama reported hearing explosions in the Bahraini capital following the Israeli and U.S. strikes against Iran. The cause of the explosions is not yet known, they said.

United Arab Emirates: partial and temporary airspace closure

The United Arab Emirates has “partially and temporarily” closed its airspace, according to authorities, AFP reports.

Tehran: Heavy security presence, streets blocked around Khamenei’s residential area

A heavy security presence has been deployed in Tehran, where streets have been blocked around the neighborhood of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei’s residence following Israeli and U.S. strikes, an AFP journalist reported.

Smoke was seen rising from the Pasteur district, in central Tehran, where the Supreme Leader’s residence and the presidency are located. People on the scene told AFP they had heard three explosions in the area.

Emergency sirens sound in Bahrain

Emergency sirens sounded in Bahrain, home to the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet, following the strikes against Iran.

Aoun calls to ‘put Lebanon’s interests above all other considerations’

Following the strikes on Iran and Iran’s response against Israel, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun held a series of contacts with Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, Public Works Minister Fayez Rassamny, U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon Michel Issa, and Army Commander General Rodolph Haykal, regarding the possible repercussions of the conflict for Lebanon, according to a statement posted on the presidency’s X account.

President Aoun stressed “the need to be prepared and to coordinate efforts in order to protect Lebanon.” He said the delicate phase the country is currently going through requires from everyone “a total commitment to national responsibility and to the primacy of Lebanon’s higher interests and those of the Lebanese people over any other consideration.”

The president also said that “shielding Lebanon from the disasters and horrors of external conflicts, as well as preserving its sovereignty, security and stability, constitutes an absolute priority.” He called for “uniting efforts and strengthening internal solidarity” to face the looming challenges and prevent any repercussions on Lebanese territory and its people. He added that “the State, with all its institutions, will remain the primary guarantor of security, stability and the protection of all citizens and the entire territory.”

Several explosions heard in Jerusalem

Several loud explosions were heard in Jerusalem shortly after sirens sounded over the city, AFP journalists reported.

Sirens sounded twice in Jerusalem within minutes. The Israeli army had earlier announced that it had detected missile launches from Iran toward Israel.

Iranian missiles toward Israel: Sirens in Amman, interceptor detonations heard in Lebanon

Following the launch of Iranian missile barrages toward Israel, warning sirens sounded in Amman, Jordan.

In southern Lebanon and in the Bekaa Valley, detonations from Israeli interceptor missiles were heard, according to L’Orient-Le Jour’s local correspondents.

The FPM also calls to ‘keep Lebanon out of the war’

The vice president of the Free Patriotic Movement (FPM) for foreign affairs, Naji Hayek, told L’OLJ that no front in support of Iran should be opened from Lebanon. “The country must be kept out of the war,” the FPM official added.

Second Iranian missile barrage toward Israel; Israeli public told to remain in shelters

A second barrage of Iranian missiles was launched toward Israel, according to Israeli civil defense. The public has been instructed to remain in shelters, while air-raid sirens sounded in Jerusalem, AFP reported.

Netanyahu: The time has come for Iranians to ‘cast off the yoke of tyranny’

Netanyahu said that the time has come for Iranians to “cast off the yoke of tyranny,” according to AFP.

Israeli-American strikes on Iran and Iran’s response: What we know

• Shortly before 8:30 a.m. (Beirut time, 10 a.m. in Tehran, 1:30 a.m. in Washington), Israel said it had carried out “preemptive strikes” against Iran. It was quickly confirmed that the United States is also taking part in this large-scale operation, bombing Iranian territory from bases in the region and from aircraft carriers deployed to the Middle East in recent weeks.
• Iranian missile launches toward Israel were observed around 10 a.m. (Beirut time), according to the Israeli army, following Tehran’s promise of a “crushing” response.
• The bombardments struck several neighborhoods in Tehran, including Keshvardoust and Pasteur, where the residences of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, and the presidency are located. Ayatollah Khamenei had, however, been evacuated from Tehran before the military campaign, and Pezeshkian is “safe and sound,” according to Iranian sources. Other cities, including Isfahan, Qom, Karaj, Kermanshah and Ilam were also hit.
• “Figures” of the regime were targeted, as well as ministries and Iranian military and nuclear infrastructure.
• No casualty toll was immediately available.
• In Israel, a state of alert was declared, with sirens sounding in Jerusalem.
• The airspace of several countries has been closed, notably in Iraq and in the Gulf, but no change has yet been announced in Beirut.

Start of flight cancellations to Beirut; ‘likely that all foreign airlines’ will cancel their flights

Lebanese airspace remains open, as confirmed earlier by Minister Fayez Rassamny, but several airlines have begun canceling their flights to Beirut, according to two sources at the capital’s international airport. Air France, Iraqi Airways and Qatar Airways are among those affected. According to one of the sources, it is very likely that all foreign airlines will cancel their flights, given the situation between Israel, the United States and Iran.

Missiles launched from Iran toward Israel

The Israeli army announced that it had detected missiles launched from Iran toward Israel, according to information reported by Reuters.

Hezbollah “will not embark on an adventure under these circumstances,” according to a source close to Ain al-Tineh

A source close to Ain al-Tineh told L’Orient-Le Jour that everyone is waiting to see what happens next. “This is a war in which the Americans are directly involved, and Lebanon appears to be just a detail,” the source said, adding that Hezbollah “will not embark on an adventure under these circumstances.

No closure of Lebanese airspace for now, according to Rassamny

“No decision has been taken for the moment to close Lebanese airspace,” Public Works and Transport Minister Fayez Rassamny told the local press, remarks confirmed to L’Orient-Le Jour by the minister’s press office. “The ministry is monitoring developments in order to act accordingly,” he added.

US Embassy in Qatar orders staff to shelter in place

The U.S. Embassy in Qatar has ordered its personnel to shelter in place and has called on American citizens in the country to do the same, following the launch of Israeli strikes against Iran, AFP reports.

“The U.S. Embassy in Qatar has instituted a shelter-in-place order for all its personnel,” it wrote on its website. “We recommend that all Americans do the same until further notice,” it added, urging them to “seek a safe location in their residence or in another secure building.”

‘Pillars of the Iranian regime’ targeted in the strikes, according to L’OLJ information

The initial strikes focused on targeting several pillars of the Iranian regime, according to information from L’Orient-Le Jour. The strikes targeted senior figures.

However, President Massoud Pezeshkian is “safe and sound,” according to an Iranian state media outlet cited by AFP.

Israeli opposition leader says the country ‘remains united’ during strikes on Iran

Israel’s main opposition leader, Yair Lapid, said that all forces in the country remain “united” following the launch of strikes on Iran, AFP reports.

“In moments like this we remain united, and we win together. There is no coalition and no opposition, only one people and one army, and all of us stand behind them,” Lapid said on X.

Iranian state television confirms Israel’s ‘aggression’ against Tehran

Iranian state television confirmed what it described as an “aerial aggression by the Zionist regime” after a series of explosions were heard in Tehran, AFP reports.

According to the Fars news agency, “seven missile impacts were reported in the Keshvardoust and Pasteur neighborhoods” in Tehran, an area where the residence of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei is located.

The Lebanese Forces call for measures to ‘keep Lebanon completely out of the war’

The spokesperson for the Lebanese Forces, Charles Jabbour, told L’Orient-Le Jour that “the most important thing at the moment is that all necessary measures be taken to keep Lebanon completely out of the war.”

Trump: The United States has launched ‘major combat operations’ in Iran

U.S. President Donald Trump said in a video shared on social media that the United States has launched “major combat operations” in Iran. “Our objective is to defend the American people by eliminating imminent threats from the Iranian regime,” he stated.

Washington has taken all possible measures to minimize risks to U.S. personnel in the region, but “Americans could be lost and there could be casualties,” he added.

He also said that the United States will ensure that Iran does not obtain a nuclear weapon. “We will annihilate their navy,” he continued.

‘It is still too early to know whether Lebanon will be able to stay out of the conflict,’ according to an official Lebanese source speaking to L’OLJ

“It is still too early to know whether Lebanon will be able to stay out of the conflict that has just begun,” a Lebanese official source told L’Orient Today.

US strikes focused on Iranian military institutions, according to The New York Times

U.S. strikes are currently focused on Iranian military institutions, according to a U.S. official cited by The New York Times. The official indicated that Iranian ballistic missile launch sites are dispersed throughout the country.

Tehran prepares for 'crushing' retaliation, says Iranian official

Tehran is preparing a response, which will be “crushing,” an Iranian official told Reuters. According to the agency, several ministries in southern Iran have been bombed.

In Tehran, long lines are forming at gas stations, and a large number of residents are trying to leave the city.

Dozens of US strikes underway on Iran

“Dozens of U.S. strikes” are currently underway, according to a U.S. official cited by The New York Times.

These bombings are being conducted by aircraft operating from bases in the Middle East as well as from aircraft carriers.

Explosions heard in Isfahan, Qom, Karaj and Kermanshah, Iran

Explosions have been heard in Isfahan, Qom, Karaj, and Kermanshah, according to the Fars News Agency, as reported by Reuters.

Iran closes its airspace

Iran has closed its airspace, Tasnim News Agency reports, quoted by Reuters.

This means aircraft cannot fly through or into Iranian-controlled skies at the moment.

Khamenei ‘transferred to a secure location’ outside Tehran.

Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, is no longer in Tehran and has been moved to a secure location, an Iranian official told Reuters.

According to IRINN, explosions were heard in the eastern and western parts of the Iranian capital. Mehrabad Airport is reportedly among the sites targeted, Reuters reports.

Air traffic suspended in Erbil

Erbil International Airport, in Iraqi Kurdistan, announced the suspension of air traffic, according to the official Iraqi news agency, as reported by Reuters.

The airport is located in Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.

Mobile phone lines cut in some districts of Tehran

Mobile phone lines have been cut in parts of eastern and western Tehran, and internet connectivity has weakened in some areas, according to Iranian media, reports Reuters.

The United States strikes Iran

A U.S. official quoted by The New York Times said that American strikes are also underway against Iran.

According to an Israeli defense official, the Israeli operation in Iran was coordinated with the U.S., reports Reuters.

Tehran stock exchange halted, panic and chaos in the streets

Following the sound of several explosions in Tehran, trading on the Tehran Stock Exchange was suspended, according to Iranian media cited by Reuters.

Saturday morning is a working day in Iran, with businesses, shops, and schools open. Residents of Tehran, contacted by The New York Times, described scenes of panic and chaos.

Israel announces the closure of its airspace to civilian traffic, AFP reports.

Israel has shut down its airspace to civilian flights, AFP reported

3 huge explosions heard in Tehran, smoke billowing over the Supreme Leader's neighborhood and the presidency

According to the semi-official Iranian news agency Fars, three massive explosions were heard in Tehran.

Two plumes of thick smoke were seen in two different districts of the city by AFP journalists after a rumbling noise, the origin of which was not immediately clear. The news agency Isna reports that one of the plumes is rising from around the Pasteur district, where the residence of the Supreme Leader and the presidency are located, in central Tehran.

Warning sirens in Jerusalem, ‘extremely serious alert’ according to authorities

Warning sirens were heard in Jerusalem, and Israeli residents received phone alerts about an “extremely serious” threat.

The Israeli Minister of Defense, Israel Katz, said the Israeli attack aims to “eliminate threats” targeting the Israel and warned of an imminent drone and missile attack against Israel following the Israeli strike on Tehran.

The Israeli Ministry of Defense announces that it launched a 'preemptive strike' on Iran

The Israeli Ministry of Defense announced that it had launched a “preemptive strike” on Iran, AFP reports.