Israel began a pre-emptive attack on Iran on Saturday, with the United States also launching military actions, heightening tensions in the Middle East and diminishing hopes for a peaceful resolution to Iran’s nuclear issues with the West. U. S. military operations are expected to continue for several days, though detailed information on their extent is not available. Iran is reportedly planning significant retaliation.
President Donald Trump confirmed the U. S. operations, emphasizing that they aim to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons while addressing concerns over Iran’s ballistic missile program. He stated that the goal is to protect American citizens by eliminating potential threats from Iran. Reports indicate that Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, was moved to a secure location during these events.
The attacks follow an earlier 12-day air war in June between Iran and Israel, along with warnings from both the U. S. and Israel that further strikes would occur if Iran continued its nuclear endeavors. Israeli officials characterized the situation as a necessary defense against threats to the nation, launching operations during significant times, including Ramadan and just before the Jewish holiday of Purim.
An Israeli defense official noted that the military operation had been in the works for months in conjunction with the U. S. Reports from Iranian media highlighted explosions in Tehran, while Israel prepared its citizens for potential missile strikes by closing schools and restricting airspace.
Negotiations resumed in February between the U. S. and Iran aimed at resolving their longstanding disputes, though Israel insisted any agreement must involve dismantling Iran’s nuclear capabilities and addressing its missile program. Iran has expressed willingness to negotiate limits on its nuclear activities in return for sanctions relief but has rejected any links to its missile initiatives and has warned it would defend itself against attacks, threatening retaliation against U. S. bases in the region.
With information from Reuters
