DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — The United States and Israel launched coordinated strikes against Iran early Saturday, targeting locations including areas near the offices of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran, Iranian media reported. President Donald Trump, in a video statement released on social media, confirmed the commencement of “major combat operations in Iran,” citing concerns over the country’s continued nuclear development and its pursuit of ballistic missile technology.
The attacks, which reportedly spanned multiple locations across Iran, prompted a shutdown of the country’s airspace and disruptions to mobile phone services, according to state media. Explosions were reported in Tehran and other cities, with smoke visible rising from the capital. Iranian authorities have yet to release casualty figures.
Trump, in his address, asserted that Iran intends to develop missiles capable of reaching the United States and urged the Iranian population to “take over your government — it will be yours to take.” He acknowledged the potential for American casualties, stating, “that often happens in war.”
The strikes come as the U.S. Has amassed a significant military presence in the region, including a fleet of fighter jets and warships, in an effort to pressure Iran into a nuclear agreement. While Iran maintains it has not enriched uranium since June, it has restricted access for international inspectors to sites previously inspected during a 12-day war, according to the Associated Press. Satellite imagery analyzed by the AP indicates renewed activity at those sites, suggesting potential efforts to assess and recover materials.
Iran currently limits the range of its ballistic missiles to 2,000 kilometers (1,240 miles), placing regional targets and parts of eastern Europe within reach. Washington has expressed concern over Iran’s space program, suggesting it could potentially contribute to the development of intercontinental ballistic missiles, though no public evidence supports this claim.
Hours after the strikes within Iran, explosions were reported in northern Israel as the country’s air defense systems intercepted incoming Iranian missiles. Sirens sounded in Jordan as well. Israeli hospitals initiated emergency protocols, including relocating patients and surgical operations to underground facilities.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated the attack was undertaken “to remove threats,” but provided no further details. According to an official briefed on the operation, targets included Iranian military facilities, government symbols, and intelligence infrastructure.
Trump has repeatedly called for new leadership in Iran, particularly in the wake of nationwide protests, and views the current instability within the country as an opportunity to secure a deal constraining its nuclear program. Iran, however, has expressed its commitment to enriching uranium and has resisted discussions on limiting its missile program or its support for groups like Hamas and Hezbollah.
Iraq closed its airspace following the initial strikes, according to its Ministry of Transport. Iranian state television reported on the explosions in Tehran without attributing a cause.
